Live At The "It" Club - Complete - Thelonious Monk

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of jazz with Thelonious Monk's "Live At The 'It' Club - Complete." This exceptional album captures the legendary pianist and his quartet at the height of their prowess, recorded live at the "It" Club in Los Angeles on October 31 and November 1, 1964. The ensemble features the incomparable Charlie Rouse on tenor sax, Larry Gales on bass, and Ben Riley on drums, delivering a performance that is as dynamic as it is nuanced.

Spanning a generous 2 hours and 33 minutes, the album is a treasure trove of 17 tracks that showcase Monk's distinctive style and inventive genius. From the swinging "Blue Monk" to the intricate "Misterioso," each piece is a testament to Monk's ability to blend bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz into a sound that is uniquely his own. The album also includes standout performances like "Well, You Needn't," "'Round Midnight," and "Straight, No Chaser," each offering a glimpse into the creative genius of one of jazz's most influential figures.

"Live At The 'It' Club - Complete" is not just a collection of songs but a vivid snapshot of a pivotal moment in jazz history. The energy and spontaneity of the live setting are palpable, making this album a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Monk's music. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or simply looking to explore the genre, this album offers an unforgettable journey through the world of Thelonious Monk and his extraordinary quartet.

1 januari 1964

(P) 1964 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.