The first of three albums recorded in a three day period, this CD features pianist
Randy Weston in a quartet with bassist
Jamil Nasser, drummer
Idris Muhammad and percussionist Eric Asante, interpreting seven of
Thelonious Monk's songs. Since
Monk was a major (but not dominant) influence on his style,
Weston fully understands
Thelonious' music without feeling compelled to closely copy his musical role model. Highlights include fresh versions of "Well You Needn't," "Misterioso" and a 13 1/2 minute rendition of "Functional." ~ Scott Yanow