****RINGER OF THE WEEK***Randy Weinstein: Harmonimonk

Randy Weinstein comes up with a brilliant idea that almost works perfectly the whole way through the album-take the tunes of Thelonious Monk and interpret them through both the diatonic and chromatic harmonicas, backed only by the most Spartan of teams, in just drums, guitar or bass. Monk’s moods work well with guitarist Michaela Gomez on the Cajun-ish “ Bright Mississippi” and the dark resonance of “In Walked Bud”. Likewise, warm red clay blues with bassist George Bush makes “Green Chimney’s” steam up, while his tuba makes “Straight, No Chaser” a but quizzical. Drum samples make “Bye-Ya” tons of fun” and “Off Minor” clip clops with a carefree attitude, all the while Weinstein blowing up a storm, creating palpable harmonics that would have had Monk smile in bliss.

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