In 1954, during his first trip to Paris, the adventurous pianist and be-bop pioneer Thelonious Monk recorded a handful of songs for French radio, first issued by the Swing label (prequel of Vogue Discs) on a 10" EP, and later reissued as The Prophet. Unencumbered by bass, drums, or other accompaniment, Monk gives us all we need in left-hand rhythms and right-hand melodies; ‘Round About Midnight’ and ‘Reflections’ di play masterful commands and there’s a one-off take of ‘Smoke Gets In Your Eyes.’ Highlighting his capabilities in full, this is required listening for Monk fans and lovers of solo jazz piano.
SIDE A
A1. Round About Midnight
A2. Reflections
A3. Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
A4. Well You Needn't
SIDE B
B1. Portrait Of An Ermite
B2. Manganese
B3. Eronel
B4. Off Minor |
