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Monk, Thelonious
The Prophet
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, later issued as 'The Prophet.' Unencumbered by bass, drums or other a companiment, Monk gives us all we need in left-hand rhythms and right-hand melodies; 'Round About Midnight' and 'Reflections' do play masterful command 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.