Tim Conley aka MAST explores 16 Thelonious Monk compositions through "modern electronic bleeps, bloops, and beats." The risk is obvious here, and the move immediately begs the question, "why?" But trust, Conley's multi-layered reinterpretations bring the revered jazz pianist's works into the future w/o tarnishing his signature rawness and/or "unapologetic rhythmic jankiness." Conley assembles a cast of extraordinary musicians to pull Thelonious Sphere Monk off, from NYC tenor saxophonist Christ Speed and Chicago drummer Makaya McCraven to pianist brian Marsella and Philly bassist Jason Fraticelli; the virtuosos bring depth to the project but also, the album is never short on fun, something that both Thelonious Monk enthusiasts and newcomers to jazz can enjoy. Check out "Ask Me Now," "Nutty," "Let's Cool One," and "Evidence."

• includes download card
• mastered by Daddy Kev
• music label: World Galaxy 2018

reviewed by rei kwondo 04/2018