Jimmy Giuffre's "Blue Monk" is a sprawling and captivating journey through the jazz landscape, released in 2016 under the Chard label. Spanning nearly three hours, this extensive collection showcases Giuffre's versatility and mastery as a saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer. The album is a blend of cool jazz and free jazz, featuring a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of jazz standards.
The title track, "Blue Monk," is a standout piece, presented as a suite in four movements, highlighting Giuffre's creative writing and his unique approach to jazz. The album also includes two interpretations of classic jazz standards, providing a fresh perspective on familiar tunes. Giuffre's clarinet playing is a highlight, often in sharp contrast to the New Orleans-style trombone strutting of Bob Brookmeyer.
"Blue Monk" features a diverse range of tracks, from the upbeat and energetic "Seventy-Six Trombones" and "Big Pow Wow" to the more introspective and melancholic pieces like "The Lonely Time" and "I Got a Right to Sing the Blues." The album also includes a variety of styles, from the swinging "Saturday Night Dance" to the experimental "Voodoo" and "Two Kinds of Blues."
The album was remastered by Ray Staff at Air Mastering, Lyndhurst Hall, London, ensuring the highest audio quality. "Blue Monk" is a testament to Jimmy Giuffre's enduring influence and innovation in the world of jazz, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Vinylscout