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John Sheehy's avatar

I feel like such a pianist fraud because I don’t love those blue note genius of modern music records… juxtaposed with his later output.

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Stephen Asetta's avatar

I have always loved the " Carolina Moon " but listening again right now I can't believe how much it sounds like Frelon Brun from Filles de Killamanjaro

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Eric  Nachtrab's avatar

Great post! I think that Rouse, Ore, and Dunlop really are one of the best Monk quartets. They are “all in”. Thanks for reminding me about these records, it’s been a minute.

Speaking of Monk, I am also enjoying your playing on the new Dayna Stephens record (Monk’d). I really hear Eric McPhersons connection to Frankie Dunlop on that record (…and Dayna on bass!) Great playing all around!

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Bill Burke's avatar

Much appreciated. It’s helpful in pointing out some things I’ve overlooked. I have loved almost everything I’ve ever heard (although I certainly haven’t heard everything), but agree that ‘Thelonious Monk Trio” is at or near the summit of a very high mountain.

Somewhat related, I just saw Sullivan Fortner play Monk at SFJAZZ in the small room there. Superb!!! Really brought out the stride in several numbers. It was a great performance. He brought me totally into Monk’s world, without playing everything like Monk did. The rhythms were there but the interpretations were fresh and utterly inspiring. All Monk except one Bud Powell tune, plus Cherokee. What a great musician and artist Sullivan is proving to be.

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ETHAN IVERSON's avatar

fantastic! Thanks for the report!

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Chuck Mitchell's avatar

Typically exceptional overview. Thank you, especially for the props you gave Frankie Dunlop. I could never survive a desert island without “Functional,” which I hear as Monk’s Rosetta Stone. Once it’s absorbed, one can pretty much much go anywhere in the Monk archives and enjoy a lifetime of revelation. Cheers!

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ETHAN IVERSON's avatar

Yeah I love "Functional" as well, and what a great title for a "basic" blues. Thanks Chuck

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mike flatnine's avatar

THANK YOU

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ETHAN IVERSON's avatar

right on

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