Epistrophy by Thelonious Monk

This is a performance of Epistrophy by Thelonious Monk (piano), Charlie Rouse (saxophone), Butch Warren (Bass), and Frankie Dunlop (Drums). An “epistrophe” is “the reputation of a word at the end of successive clauses” (Webster), which gives some insight into vamp played during the chorus. Rouse starts out his solo with short staccato notes, many of which are non-chord tones. As his solo progresses, he plays more chord tones and increases note length. Monk has a masterful solo on the piano. He experiments with different rhythms and makes sure to add dissonant chords that keep you on your toes.