Sphere was an American jazz band which began as a tribute to pianist Thelonious Monk, whose middle name was "Sphere".
The band consisted of pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Buster Williams, and two members who had been Monk's bandmates, drummer Ben Riley and saxophonist Charlie Rouse. After Rouse died in 1988, Sphere disbanded but reunited ten years later with Gary Bartz taking Rouse's place.
Sphere recorded its first album on the day that Monk died, February 17, 1982. This was a tribute album of tunes by Monk. The band recorded several more albums which included jazz standards and original compositions.
1982 - Four In One
1983 - Flight Path
1985 - On Tour (Live)
1986 - Pumpkins Delight (Live At Umbria Jazz)
1987 - Four For All
1988 - Bird Songs
1997 - Sphere
