Thelonious Monk - “Pannonica (Re-Take 2)”

Written by Monk himself, “Pannonica” was originally released on the jazz mastermind’s 1957 LP Brilliant Corners - a classic and personal favorite of mine, as you can tell from the title of my blog. “Pannonica” was named as such for Monk’s close friend, Pannonica de Koenigswarter (a.k.a. Kathleen Annie Pannonica Rothschild). Pannonica was a British-born jazz enthusiast, patroness, and member of the influential Rothschild family. Here’s a nice picture of the “couple”:

Anyways, the version of “Pannonica” featured here, track six on Monk’s semi-eponymous LP, is much better (just my opinion, of course). Despite my great love for Brilliant Corners, I’d say that this “Re-Take” of Monk’s original composition has got a sexier sound to it. More lush and minimalistic, which I dig when it comes to jazz. Amongst the many Thelonious Monk albums I’ve listened to and read about, I’ve noticed that 1964’s Monk. is often overlooked. I don’t get it. I love this entire album. As a matter of fact, I just ordered a copy (vinyl, of course) on eBay a moment ago, inspiring this post. Can’t wait ‘til it arrives!