‘’MONK’estra, Vol. 1 is a masterpiece that uniquely defies conventional interpretations of Monk’s music. The recording deftly indicates John Beasley’s virtuosity as a re- arranger of the groove-centric, swinging, contemporary harmonies that emanated from Monk’s jazz.”
–Sounds Of Timeless Jazz
“John Beasley’s MONK’estra Reinvents Thelonious Monk for the 21st Century”
–LA Weekly
Thelonious Monk is a Mount Rushmore figure in the creation of modern jazz. As the centennial of his birth rapidly approaches, Beasley—pianist, conductor and arranger—has grappled with the complex composer’s legacy with his versatile big band riffing on the wit and unmistakable architecture of the Monk songbook with irrepressible energy and swinging abandon on MONK’estra, Volume 1
Musicians
John Beasley – Piano
Gary Burton – Vibes
Ryan Dragon – Trombone
Terreon Gully – Drums
Danny Janklow – Alto Saxophone
Gabriel Johnson – Trumpet
Tom Luer – Tenor Saxophone
Grégoire Maret – Harmonica
Gary Novak – Drums
Tom Peterson – Bass Clarinet
Bob Sheppard – Alto & Soprano Saxophone
Brian Swartz – Trumpet
Francisco Torres – Trombone
Bijon Watson – Trumpet
