The Microscopic Septet

Monk's music deserves to be interpreted by artists who know what a funny bone feels like, and this longstanding outfit has never been at a loss for a grin or three. So no wonder their new Friday the 13th is such a pip of a tribute disc. Whether turning "Gallop's Gallop" into parade music or blowing some Caribbean smoke through "Bye-Ya," they illustrate swing's whimsical side. Call it repertory as romper room, and yes, it takes lots of sobering skills to get such exclamation off the ground.
Thu., Dec. 2, 6 p.m., 2010