On this LP, recorded at studio sessions in 2010 and 2015, Duck Baker delves deeply into the thinking of one of the most challenging composers, and renders guitar interpretations that are true to the original intent. That Baker's experience playing blues, gospel, ragtime, and swing serve him well on this project goes without saying. Duck Baker Plays Monk contains solo acoustic guitar renditions of nine Thelonious Monk compositions. Baker will remind you through his playing that the idiosyncrasies of Monk's composing are further dimensions of the Americana continuum (and source musics) that has been his turf for years. Especially in Monk's centennial year, many will address Monk's oeuvre: Hundreds will in fact interpret the texts, but very few can inhabit this music in the way that the mature Duck Baker can. Includes new essays by Duck and the late Roswell Rudd. Available exclusively on high-quality vinyl; limited one-time pressing.