Posted on September 7, 2023
Fulica Records can finally announce the CD/digital release of Duck Baker Plays Monk, which originally came out as an audiophile LP in 2017, on the Triple Point label. The CD/digital version of the record includes 7 previously unissued tracks that expand the playing time by 25 minutes. As part a special introductory offer, the CD comes with a free transcription of one of the bonus tracks (“Kōjō no Tsuki,” which Monk recorded as “Japanese Folk Song”), as well as an MP3 of a live 2010 performance of that tune, recorded on Baker’s last tour of Japan.
For the track listing and further info, click here
To purchase the CD, click here
To purchase the digital version click here
Along with Spinning Song: Duck Baker Plays The Music Of Herbie Nichols, Duck Baker Plays Monk is one of the guitarist’s most important solo jazz records, and the original release met with a warm response in the jazz and audiophile press, as the following quotes demonstrate:
“Baker’s full range of American music, from ragtime to no time, comes into play. This is a delightful and carefully issued recording.” – Cadence
“In concentrating on music by Thelonious Monk, Baker melds his own imagination and daring with the deep harmonic and rhythmic implications of Monk’s compositions. “ – Arts Journal
“Putting bebop, written craft and improvisation through their paces, Plays Monk is a masterful recording of creative solo fingerstyle.” – New York City Jazz Journal
“The transfer from piano to guitar is individualistic and beautifully interpretative” – Audiophile Audition
“Baker bends, slides, snaps, buzzes, and pings ringing harmonics from his strings; he slows, speeds, and practically stops time, all the while bringing a fresh take to these signature tunes. I love Monk, I love this record.” – The Absolute Sound