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Thelonious Monk

Plays Duke Ellington/The unique Thelonious Monk

Plays Duke Ellington/The unique Thelonious Monk

SKU: CD8298 Barcode: 8436542017152
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Format: CD / Album

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  • Released Date: 30 Sep 2014

  • Genre: Jazz

Our Take

Thelonious Monk's playful interpretation of Duke Ellington's classic compositions on "Thelonious Monk Plays Duke Ellington" is a delightful rollercoaster ride through the mind of one of jazz's most innovative pianists.

From the moment Monk's fingers hit the keys on the opening track, "It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing," it's clear that this album is going to be a wild, unpredictable ride. Monk's idiosyncratic style and off-kilter time signatures bring a fresh, almost subversive quality to these well-known tunes.

Tracks like "Sophisticated Lady" and "Caravan" are given the Monk treatment, with angular melodies and unexpected chord changes that keep listeners on their toes. Even on the more straightforward numbers like "Mood Indigo," Monk's genius shines through in every note.

The rhythm section, featuring the legendary John Ore on bass and Frankie Dunlop on drums, provide the perfect backdrop for Monk's intricate, unorthodox playing. Together, they create a sound that is at once chaotic and cohesive, a true testament to Monk's vision as a bandleader.

Overall, "Thelonious Monk Plays Duke Ellington" is a must-listen for fans of either artist, as well as anyone looking to expand their jazz horizons. It's a masterclass in musical innovation and a testament to the enduring legacy of two jazz legends. Monk and Ellington would be proud.

Track Listing

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About the artist

Thelonious Monk

Thelonious Monk, the enigmatic jazz pianist and composer whose unique style defied categorisation, continues to captivate audiences with his unconventional approach to music. With a career spanning over four decades, Monk's influence extends far beyond the confines of traditional jazz, earning him a reputation as one of the genre's most innovative and enduring figures. Born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina in 1917, Monk began playing the piano at a young age and quickly established himself as a prodigious talent. His early recordings, including the seminal album "Brilliant Corners," showcased his distinctive blend of complex harmonies, rhythmic experimentation, and playful improvisation, setting him apart from his contemporaries. Despite achieving critical acclaim and widespread recognition, Monk remained a somewhat elusive figure, known for his idiosyncratic behaviour and enigmatic persona. His eccentricities only added to his mystique, with stories of his unconventional performance style and quirky sense of humour becoming the stuff of legend. While Monk's music may not always be easily accessible to mainstream audiences, his enduring legacy is undeniable. His compositions, such as "Round Midnight" and "Blue Monk," have become jazz standards beloved by musicians and listeners alike, ensuring that his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. In a musical landscape increasingly dominated by trends and fads, Thelonious Monk stands as a beacon of originality and creativity, reminding us of the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision. As Monk himself once said, "The genius is the one most like himself." And in that regard, there will never be another quite like Thelonious Monk.

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