Author: Gabriel Solis
Publisher: University of California Press
Year Published: 2008
Type: Non-Fiction
Format / Pages: / 239 pages
Review: This 2008 book publication is a dandy! It is filled with insights and commentary on the legendary jazz pianist, Thelonious Monk (1917 - 1982). Written by Gabriel Solis, it is well-researched and makes for enjoyable reading.
Thelonious Monk is considered one of jazz's greatest figures. He performed many roles, including that of composer, pianist, and bandleader. At the center of what would become modern jazz during the 1940s, he helped establish and create the stage for what was to come along in the 1960s and 1970s. This is more than a biography, for it is a nonfiction look at Monk and the times he was creating and performing in as a jazz innovator. Since Monk's passing, he has become a major icon of jazz and has an enduring following of fans.
The book has a fine sense of balance and covers many topics in-depth. There is a solid reference found in the notes, bibliography, and index that makes for quick reference and easy access to the book itself. This book should have a wide appeal to any reader who enjoys jazz and enjoys reading about jazz and jazz figures. There are samples of Monk's music included in the book.
Following the introduction, the book is divided into three parts. There is a total of eight chapters. The reader will discover everything needed to know about the enigmatic Monk, and what he achieved, from "Bon, Bon Vie" to Albin Zak! This is the type of well-written book that captures the reader's attention immediately and provides an excellent reading experience.
For Monk fans, this is a perfect addition to material about the man, and for those new to Monk or wanting to read about jazz history, this is well worth their time to read. Highly recommended.
Additional Information: Check it out @ Amazon.com
ISBN: 9780520252011
Reviewed by: Lee Prosser
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