Biography

Frank Carlberg assembled a multifaceted big band for his Monk-inspired album.

Pianist-composer Frank Carlberg's Elegy For Thelonious is a seven-track journey where Carlberg approaches Thelonious Sphere Monk's original material through his own compositional identity, "borrowing and transforming its cells and fragments." Carlberg combines fragments from different sources, ultimately creating entirely new wholes. The results of this process are impressive.

"Monk's music is still as vibrant as ever. The intention of this album's music is not to imitate the original works but to create new compositions from a personal perspective inspired by Monk's art," says Carlberg.

Released by Sunnyside Records, the album is an impressive follow-up to Carlberg's previous album Monk Dreams, Hallucinations and Nightmares (2017), also inspired by Monk's music. The album received widespread acclaim upon its release, earning five stars from DownBeat magazine, with the Buffalo News praising it as "gorgeous and original."

Carlberg has approached Monk's music in various contexts: as a respected pianist, a member of smaller jazz ensembles, and as the composer and leader of more experimental big band projects. On Elegy For Thelonious Carlberg acts as the band's leader, allowing himself the familiar role of pianist while showcasing the brilliant Leo Genovese (known from his collaborations with Esperanza Spaulding) on keyboards.

Some of the tracks are largely abstract compared to Monk's original compositions. Examples include Wrinkle On Trinkle (Trinkle Tinkle), Out Of Steam (Locomotive), and Scallop’s Scallop (Gallop’s Gallop). On other tracks, the connection to the original compositions is more readily apparent – for example, Brake Tune (Brake’s Sake), featuring standout solos by tenor saxophonist Hery Paz and Leo Genovese on keyboards.

The opening track Spooky Rift We Pat is an anagram of Monk's compositions Tea For Two and Skippy. Featuring solos by tenor saxophonist Adam Kolker, trumpeter David Adewumi, vocalist Christine Correa, and a soaring saxophone solo, the song sets a contemplative tone. In Wanting More, the lyrics derive from Monk's saying "Always Leave Them Wanting More." Alongside Correa and Priya Carlberg's vocals, masterful trumpeter John Carlson takes a solo.

The titular track Elegy for Thelonious is the centerpiece of the album, combining many elements. Correa recites a poem by Yusef Komunyakaa, creating a meditative atmosphere. This is followed by the hymn Abide With Me (composed by William H. Monk in the 19th century), sung by Correa and Priya Carlberg, which also appeared on Thelonious Monk's Monk's Music album. Soloists include trombonist Brian Drye, cornetist Kirk Knuffke, and Jeremy Udden on the Lyricon.

"I chose each soloist for each piece specifically for their qualities, aiming to highlight their personalities and strengths. While the album contains a lot of carefully written material, I've always eagerly welcomed each orchestra member's contribution," says Carlberg.

Tracklist

1. Spooky Rift We Pat
2. Out Of Steam
3. Wanting More
4. Elegy For Thelonious
5. Gallops Gallop
6. Wrinkle On Trinkle
7. Brake Tune