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Thelonious Sphere Monk (1917-1982) is recognized as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz. He was one of the architects of bebop and his impact
as a composer and pianist has had a profound influence on every genre of music.
Dutch/German singer Marijke Jährling was struck with his music from the first time she heard his recordings with John Coltrane as a teen. Now - a few decades later - she decided to produce a tribute album which is her very personal approach to Monk; to spotlight the beauty and importance of his work for today. With fresh vocalized versions, these Bebop classics shimmer in contemporary colors: from up-tempo scats to more dreamy interpretations, Marijke and her band follow the musical universe of the genius Thelonious “Sphere” Monk.
As no other jazz giant, Monk marked the true
conception of a nonstop creative artist. His compositions are foils for every serious musician to find their own voice and personal sound. Marijke and her young group of German talents create a specific and unique atmosphere to express the poetry, humor and tempo of the jazz legend, broadcasted in a light and transparent manner.
To some of Monk’s compositions Miss Jährling wrote new lyrics, that relate about music and love, recounting the life of Monk. In a French version of “Crepescule with Nellie” the long shadows of slavery and racism is thematically
exhausted.

With 12 songs, this album offers a
diversified program and variety: from a bass and voice duo in “Ask Me Now” over an atmospheric and profound “Round Midnight” to a very personal Rumba version of “Well You Needn’t”. This band knows what the music of Monk is all about: there are no blinders, no boundaries!"
Linernotes Dot Time