"Tune for Monty" is a brisk, swinging original by pianist Anthony D'Alessandro from his 2022 album Searchin'. Set in a 32-bar AABA form in C and taken at a fiery tempo above 210 bpm, the piece calls for rhythmic precision and quick harmonic thinking from all involved. Trumpeter Benny Benack III takes the first solo, delivering two choruses of bright, clean-toned improvisation marked by fluid lines and confident phrasing. D'Alessandro follows with two commanding choruses of his own, his pianistic approach blending bebop vocabulary with a modern sense of space and harmonic color. The tune's title suggests a personal dedication, lending it an emotional warmth that balances the up-tempo intensity. The interplay between trumpet and piano showcases the rapport between Benack and D'Alessandro, two young musicians deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. As part of the Searchin' album, this track reflects D'Alessandro's ability to write memorable original material that gives his sidemen room to stretch while maintaining a strong compositional identity throughout.
