The Monxarella project arose from a desire to reinterpret Monk's music in a varied and new way.

The Monxarella project arose from a desire to reinterpret Monk's music in a varied and new way. Kunkel deliberately works without overdubs and uses various instruments simultaneously, including the chord zither, bass clarinet, basset horn, alto zither, harp zither, and shruti box, which he plays with his foot. The different timbres are intended to evoke a bittersweet nostalgia. He was inspired by Monk's solo albums 'Thelonious Himself' and 'Thelonious Alone in San Francisco,' which reveal a freer, more intimate side of the pianist. In addition to Monk compositions, Monxarella also includes free improvisations that reflect Monk's innovative spirit.

Since 1997, Kunkel has produced 18 CDs and has also participated in several recordings by the HR Jazz Ensemble and Stephan Schmolck's CD 'Move in Transition.'

Track Listing

• Reflections
• The Expectation Of The Lone Dragon
• Monks Mood
• Functional
• Pannonica
• Um den Mönch herum
• Light Blue
• Beautiful, But Ugly
• Ask Me Now
• North Of The Sunset
• Take To The Skies
• Monk's Dream
• Ruby My Dear
• Deux hiboux au Crepuscule
• Friday The 13th
• Misterioso
• Blue Monk
• Round Midnight

Additional Details

Label: Bayla Records

Genre: Jazz

Run Time: 50:25 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 08/08/25

UPC: 4250095820229