Four grown men on a stark stage playing odd jazz. Apparently video-taped with the best equipment available at the time, the transfer is crystal clear and the audio better than could be expected at this remove in time.
The drummer works wonders with the most minimal drum kit and the stand-up bass player is phenomenal. The saxophonist is so-so, but in context, maybe that was all he was allowed. The three
Monk rules, his crown a fur hat with ear flaps. He stands, looks at his watch or walks off the stage when it isn't his turn to play. As he solos, the mic picks up his mouth murmuring along.
The performance, short as it is, is tremendous.
The show finishes with Monk's signature composition, 'Round Midnight'. I have heard it played by orchestras and bands, often with Monk himself at the piano. This rendition rocks.
The drummer works wonders with the most minimal drum kit and the stand-up bass player is phenomenal. The saxophonist is so-so, but in context, maybe that was all he was allowed. The three
Monk rules, his crown a fur hat with ear flaps. He stands, looks at his watch or walks off the stage when it isn't his turn to play. As he solos, the mic picks up his mouth murmuring along.
The performance, short as it is, is tremendous.
The show finishes with Monk's signature composition, 'Round Midnight'. I have heard it played by orchestras and bands, often with Monk himself at the piano. This rendition rocks.
