Carmen McRae - 1988 - Carmen Sings Monk FLAC torrent

Carmen McRae - 1988 - Carmen Sings Monk

Carmen McRae, a good friend of Thelonious Monk, sang 13 of his songs (two of which are also heard in different live versions) on this memorable project. Half of the lyrics are by Jon Hendricks, while the remainder were written by Abbey Lincoln ("Blue Monk"), Bernie Hanighen, Sally Swisher, or Mike Ferro. On all but the two concert performances, McRae is assisted by tenor saxophonist Clifford Jordan, pianist Eric Gunnison, bassist George Mraz, and drummer Al Foster; Mraz's solos are particularly impressive, although everyone is in sensitive form. The live recordings give listeners two more chances to acknowledge the uniqueness of tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse's tone. As for McRae, her phrasing has rarely sounded better than on this classic set, and it is a particular pleasure to hear her interpret the intelligent lyrics and unusual melodies. "Dear Ruby" ("Ruby, My Dear") and "Listen to Monk" ("Rhythm-A-Ning") are among the high points of the essential and very delightful CD. An inspired idea and one of the best recordings of Carmen McRae's career. (AllMusic)

Track list:
01. Get It Straight (Live)
02. Dear Ruby
03. It's Over Now
04. Monkery's The Blues
05. You Know Who
06. Little Butterfly
07. Listen To Monk
08. How I Wish...
09. Man, That Was A Dream
10. 'Round Midnight
11. Still We Dream
12. Suddenly (Live)
13. Looking Back
14. Suddenly
15. Get It Straight

Personnel:
Carmen McRae - vocals
A1 Foster - drums
George Mraz - acoustic bass
Clifford Jordan - soprano and tenor sax (studio tracks only)
Eric Gunnison - piano (studio tracks only)
Charlie Rouse - tenor sax (live tracks only)
Larry Willis - piano (live tracks only)

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