Monty American

8 CD collection of soundtracks to the creation of the famous British surreal comedy group.

Monty Alexander's Jamaican heritage is combined with his bop-oriented piano on this date to create some enjoyable music. This was his first recording to make use of a steel drummer (Vince Charles), and Alexander also uses an oversized rhythm section with Jamaican guitarist Ernest Ranglin, bassist Andy Simpkins, both Duffy Jackson and Roger Bethelmy on drums and percussionist Larry McDonald. The repertoire (which includes four Alexander originals and George Benson's poppish "Weekend In L.A.") is mostly obscure, but the interpretations are lively and full of spirit.

Monty Alexander: The Montreux Years is a showcase of jazz piano virtuoso Monty Alexander’s iconic Montreux Jazz Festival live performances, spanning three decades of his career from 1993 to 2016. The Grammy-nominated, pianist performed some of his finest shows in the Swiss town and this release captures him at his best, bringing his laid-back, Caribbean vibes to the shores of Lake Geneva. In a career spanning six decades, Monty Alexander has built a reputation exploring and bridging the worlds of American jazz, popular song, and the music of his native Jamaica, finding in each a sincere spirit of musical expression. Monty has always been proud of his roots and effortlessly merges his iconic piano playing with other musical influences including that of his fellow countryman, Bob Marley, on the sublime “No Woman No Cry”, the live version of which appears on this release.

Monty Alexander - Fridaynight (1985) {2015 Japan Timeless Jazz Master Collection Complete Series CDSOL-6414}
EAC rip (secure mode) | FLAC (tracks)+CUE+LOG -> 252 Mb | MP3 @320 -> 119 Mb
Full Artwork @ 600 dpi (png) -> 236 Mb | 5% repair rar
© 1985, 2015 Limetree / Timeless Records / Solid Records Japan / Ultra-Vibe | CDSOL-6414
Jazz / Post Bop / Piano

Reissue with the latest remastering and the original cover artwork. Comes with a description written in Japanese. A great little date from pianist Monty Alexander – a set that's maybe got a bit more bite than some of Monty's American records from the time – even though this overseas release was still recorded in Florida! The core trio also features added percussion – which provides a stronger rhythmic impulse than usual, and which has the group really stretching out on some longer tunes – especially the album's version of "Since My Baby Left Me", which features guest cornet from Nat Adderley! The group on the rest of the record features Alexander on piano, Reggie Johnson on bass, Ed Thigpen on drums, and Robert Thomas Jr. on percussion.