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  | THELONIOUS MONK ~ MONK ALONE – THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA SOLO STUDIO RECORDINGS 1962-1968
COLUMBIA 65495 (Barcode: 5099706549529) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1962 - 1968 Released: 1998
Although usually considered as one of the forefathers of Bebop and modern Jazz in general, American pianist / composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist was in fact living in his own universe, often appearing as completely alien and separate to the one we all live in. Spiritually Monk was closer to other American musical "outsiders" like Fran ZappaFind albums by this artist, than to his Jazz contemporaries. He did operate in the general realm of Jazz, or even Bebop, but his complete disregard of "correctness", be it in following the "appropriate" chord changes or rhythmic patterns, sets him aside from most of the other protagonists. Monk played what he wanted to play, whatever sounded "right" to him, breaking all the rules, creating new chords and new rhythms. Often his music was so difficult to follow by other musicians, that some of his best work was delivered in the piano solo format. There were no restrictions when he sat at the piano alone, no other musicians to listen to and nobody to please, but himself. And it was pure genius! During the six years stint with Columbia Records between 1962 and 1968 Monk recorded a series of exceptional and revolutionary albums for the label, but only one of these was a solo piano album called "Solo Monk". However, he did record solo piano pieces during the sessions for the other albums, which are all collected here, together with the "Solo Monk" album, to present the genius at work, completely "naked" and at his best. This wonderful album also adds 14 previously unreleased Monk recordings, a true treasure chest for true Monk lovers. Monk´s treatment of his own compositions, as well as some Jazz standards he plays here, is an overwhelming richness of musical ideas, often excruciatingly difficult to follow at their full depth, but deeply rewarding to the dedicated followers of his work. Essential musical experience!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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