Ermitage Italy Schallplatten & CDs

Review: The latest reissue of a landmark 1957 jazz masterpiece exemplifies the desire and commitment to high-quality vinyl. Pressed using a one-step lacquer process and sourced from original analog tapes, this version stands out for its exceptional clarity, depth and musical detail. Pressed on yellow vinyl, showcases every nuance, from Monk's dissonant piano stylings to the delicate celesta on a standout track. Even on a mid-range setup, the sonic precision is strikingieach note is crystalline, with minimal surface noise. The packaging is top-notch, featuring a cloth-covered slip and a thoughtful booklet with insightful liner notes by Ashley Kahn, enriching the listener's understanding of the recording's complex history. While not inexpensive, the sound quality justifies the price, offering a fresh, dynamic listening experience that captures the essence of the era. For those deeply invested in the evolution of jazz, this reissue serves as both a historical document and an audiophile's delight, offering something new to both seasoned collectors and newer fans of the genre. It's a brilliant presentation of timeless music, executed with meticulous care and precision.

Review: Thelonious Monk's 1958 album Misterioso captures the vibrant energy of his live performances at the Five Spot Cafe in New York City. Known for its intimate setting, the venue highlights Monk's innovative jazz style and the dynamic interplay within his quartet while Johnny Griffin's tenor saxophone adds a rich, fluid counterpoint to Monk's distinctive piano playing with standout solos on tracks like 'Nutty' and 'Blues Five Spot.' The rhythm section with Ahmed Abdul-Malik on bass and Roy Haynes on drums offers a solid foundation that enhances the group's creative exploration and helped earn this album such praise for its innovative approach to jazz.