KJAZZ Guest Host: Monk + MONK’estra – Double birthdays

October 10 is month and day Thelonious Monk was born and coincidentally my birthday too.

For one hour, John Beasley plays back-to-back a Thelonious Monk song and how Beasley reimagined, reinterpreted, and relived hand selected songs from MONK’estra plays John Beasley (latest album).

Downbeat has reviewed all three of John Beasley’s MONK’estra albums: MONK’estra Vol. 1, MONK’estra Vol. 2 and MONK’estra plays John Beasley. MONK’estra Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 earned 4 GRAMMY nominations. Best Large Ensemble and Best Arrangement.

Downbeat reviews: 

*Beasley’s MONK’estra proved that a trifecta of legendary source material, creative arrangements and top-flight instrumentalists is unbeatable.

*Thelonious Monk’s classic tunes were taken for a wild ride.

*Beasley’s band will leave you rapt.

*Beasley brings Monk to life once again for modern-minded listeners.

*Beasley’s charts leave us wanting more.

*Jazz history is beautifully served here by Beasley leading his orchestra to embody his own unique vision.

**Archived show will be available to listen on demand for 2 weeks October 14-30.