The Complete Columbia Studio Solo Recordings of Thelonious Monk: 1962-1968

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the intimate and captivating world of Thelonious Monk with "The Complete Columbia Studio Solo Recordings of Thelonious Monk: 1962-1968." This expansive 2-CD set, released by Columbia/Legacy, offers a rare glimpse into the genius of one of jazz's most iconic figures, showcasing his unparalleled piano skills and innovative compositions.

Spanning a remarkable six-year period, this collection features Monk alone at the piano, delivering a masterclass in jazz improvisation and composition. The album encompasses a diverse range of styles, from bebop and hard bop to cool jazz, highlighting Monk's versatility and enduring influence on the genre.

With a running time of over two hours and twenty-five minutes, the album includes both well-known classics and previously unreleased tracks, many of which are multiple takes of the same song, offering a unique insight into Monk's creative process. Standout tracks include "Body and Soul," "Just a Gigolo," "I Love You Sweetheart of All My Dreams," and "Ruby, My Dear," each showcasing Monk's distinctive playing style and harmonic innovations.

Thelonious Monk's solo recordings are a testament to his extraordinary talent and his ability to convey deep emotion and complexity through his music. This collection is not just a compilation of songs but a comprehensive exploration of Monk's artistic evolution during a pivotal period in his career. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this album is a treasure trove of jazz brilliance that will captivate and inspire.

1 januari 1998

This compilation (P) 1998 Sony Music Entertainment

About Thelonious Monk

Thelonious Monk, born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and composer, renowned for his distinctive improvisational style and significant contributions to the jazz canon. As one of the founders of modern jazz, Monk's unique approach to rhythm, space, and harmony set him apart, making him the second-most-recorded jazz composer after Duke Ellington. His compositions, such as "'Round Midnight", "Blue Monk", and "Straight, No Chaser", are staples of the genre. Monk's deliberately quirky playing, which often challenges conventional notions of rhythm and harmony, might take some time to appreciate, but his brilliance as a composer and pianist is undeniable. Growing up in New York, Monk began playing piano at the age of five and honed his craft throughout his career, leaving an indelible mark on jazz history.