At The Five Spot

Album Description

Dive into the vibrant world of jazz with Thelonious Monk's "At The Five Spot," a live album that captures the essence of a legendary performance at the iconic Five Spot Café in New York City. Recorded on August 7, 1958, this album is a testament to Monk's genius and his ability to blend bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz into a seamless, captivating experience.

Featuring a stellar lineup that includes Johnny Griffin on tenor sax, Ahmed Abdul-Malik on bass, and Roy Haynes on drums, "At The Five Spot" showcases Monk's unique piano style and his knack for creating timeless melodies. The album's tracklist is a journey through some of Monk's most beloved compositions, including "Blue Monk," "Evidence," and "Misterioso," as well as a rare selection of tracks performed by Monk in a sextet that included Donald Byrd and Pepper Adams.

With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a comprehensive showcase of Monk's live performances, offering a glimpse into the energy and spontaneity of his concerts. The recording quality is excellent, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricate details of Monk's playing and the dynamic interplay between the musicians.

"At The Five Spot" is not just an album; it's a historical document that captures a pivotal moment in jazz history. Thelonious Monk's innovative approach to jazz continues to inspire musicians and captivate audiences, making this album a timeless classic that belongs in every jazz enthusiast's collection.

1 januari 1958

℗ 2007 Concord Music Group, Inc.

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.