“A fearless musician of great talent, and a wonderful example of how to live a life with music at the center of it. He takes on all composers, and we’re all better for it.”
— Jim Luce, Concert and Radio Producer
“His interpretations are so different from the originals that I can almost see Monk laughingat the whole thing with bemused satisfaction.”
— Giovanni Russonello, New York Times
“If you’re holding this CD, or have downloaded its contents, chances are you know something about Thelonious Sphere Monk, or are familiar with his music on some level. If not, here’s a little background information: Monk was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina on October 10th 1917, and raised in New York City. As a youngster, Monk soaked up the rich tradition of Harlem Stride Piano, as well as popular songs of the day and traditional hymns. By the early 1940s Monk held forth at after hours venues such as Minton’s Playhouse, where his penchant for experimentation played a major role in the emerging modern jazz scene. It took time, however, for Monk’s unconventional compositions and his idiosyncratic pianism to firmly establish themselves in the jazz lexicon and achieve international acclaim. Monk retreated from public performance in 1976, and passed away on February 17th 1982…”
— Jed Distler
To read the complete program notes, download NOTES: JED DISTLER’S FEARLESS MONK booklet., page 3.
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