If you combined records by Thelonious Monk, Bud Powell and Duke Ellington and played the result backward, you'd wind up with Herbie Nichols. Just kidding, but the flavors of all three pianists permeate the essence of Nichols's original music. In truth, Nichols's sound was distinct and robust, and a terrific adventure. [Photo above of Herbie Nichols by Francis Wolff (c)Mosaic Images]
Here's the full Prophetic Herbie Nichols Vol. 1. Listen to as much or as little as you wish...
Now that you're acclimated, here's a radio interview with Nichols by Mait Eady in 1962, posted by Jason Moran and sent to me by Bill Pauluh last week...
