Customer Reviews

Carmen Sings Monk

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

One of the most wonderful jazz CD's I've purchased in the last few years. Ms. McRae takes the genius of Monk, removes the edginess without detracting from the spirit of the music, and rolls out knock-out after knock-out. I wouldn't have thought it possible, frankly. The supporting quartet is terrific. I can't imagine any true jazz lover being disappointed in this CD.

All compositions by master Thelonious Monk. It is a very risky operation to write and to interpret lyrics to songs which have become jazz classic standards. Musicians usually do not believe in vocal renditions of jazz standards just because those performances or lyrics do not add quite anything to the originals. However here you have lyrics by the master Jon Hendricks and a surprising Mike Ferro: Good! It's getting more fun to run the risk ... but STOP! Silence! The first intro chords ... and then ... She, the Vocal Master, Carmen McRae in all her majesty. I recommend all tracks but specially In Walked Bud, Rhythm-a-ning and Well You Needn't, all classic greatest hits by Monk. Note: Begin listening 2 times or more a night.

Of the singers I have heard attempting to sing Monk's challenging music Carmen McRae is by far the most honest and intelligent, her lyrics leave the others wanting. Her stylisations are by far the most accurate according to Thelonious' exacting requirements and Carmen is obviously enraptured by Thelonious. Her tribute to this genius of bebop is an exceptional example of responsible design.

We know the feel of Monk. When we walk down a rainy 1 am night, scatting Monk standards, we know the feel of Monk. Mcrae makes those doos and das into lyrics without changing the sentiment we had all along. And with ole' George on bass, bringing up the bottom along with Mcrae, well, two stars just for the names. Great songs, great interpretation, great album- -NV

If I could give 10 stars to this album, I would. I've had this album for a number of years and I must say that Carmen McRae brings Monk into a new light. Her lyrics are as unforgettable as Thelonius Monk's tunes are. It's hard to imagine that could ever be true, but it is. I've always thought that if Monk were alive, he would have felt very honored to have had Carmen McRae lend her interpretations to his music in exactly the way that she has on this album.

wow- one of the best cds i own. 1st heard it on wwoz in NO, thought i was dreaming, monk tune with lyrics! bought it next day (as a cutout no less!) this cd has it all. the music is of course fantastic, monks sprit is evident, and ms mccrae is one of the best vocalists ive ever heard. but be warned! you will never hear any of the included monk tunes again in the same way. the lyrics are in my opinion are great, and very fitting to the tunes, but will stick so far in your brain that listening to any version after will be hard to enjoy without recalling the lyrics from this set. you will never hear Ruby my Dear again without thinking to "hold back that tear". trust on this. a ten in my book! enjoy

Backed by a phenomenal group and boasting great arrangements, Carmen sings with great emotion and creativity the words penned by several great lyricists to Monk's music. It seems so natural, you will swear that this is the way Monk intended for his music to be heard. The soloists consistently turn in emotional performances which naturally build and relax, as soloists should. This is not flat, mental playing. You will never hear these Monk compositions the same way again. This album really opened up Monk's music for me and is one of the most prized CDs in my collection.

Wow!!! Now here is the Carmen McRae disc to get if you just select one . I love the Penguin Guide to jazz but they missed the mark (badly) as they sometimes do . Disregard what anyone tells you . Go directly to Allmusic and get the straight dope on this brilliant and wonderful date . Each player a giant on their instrument . Sublime . A certain must get for "authentic" jazz hounds . Particularly at these prices 4-6-11 . 5 additional versions and takes as well (unlike when i was in my mid twenties) . Masterful and deeply rewarding .

Carmen McRae and the lyricists perform magic matching words to Monk's tunes. Great instrumentalists, too. It's a beautiful thing!

Carmen Mcrae is majestic! If you enjoy jazz at any level, this CD is a must buy. Carmen Mcrae IS the beat!! Incredible voice! She sings right into your soul!

Classy & Elegant!