Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser (DVD/VHS)

Contents

Documentary of one of jazz's most brilliant composers and influential musicians in performance and behind the scenes interviews.

Extended Article

Filmmaker Bruce Ricker couldn't believe his luck. Michael and Christian Blackwood's extensive 1968 footage of modern jazz pianist/ composer Thelonious Monk - including the very private Monk off stage - was in excellent shape. The reels were, Ricker said, just sitting there like the Dead Sea Scrolls of jazz.

Ricker, as co-producer, joins director and fellow producer Charlotte Zwerin (Gimme Shelter), executive producer Clint Eastwood and others to bring these scrolls to vibrant life. Their Thelonious Monk Straight No Chaser combines the Blackwood footage of Groundbreaker Monk in studio, on tour and behind the scenes with new interviews, archival photos and more to create a landmark aural and visual treat.

Quotes

Remarkable. The music extraordinary. -The New York Times

The finest jazz documentary ever. -New York Daily News