“Thelonious Monk’s knotty little compositions are as easy to recognize as they are tricky to navigate. The appropriately named Monk’s Playground approaches these idiosyncratic constructs as an opportunity for swinging, sliding, spinning, gymnastic musical fun.” — Peter McElhinney / STYLE WEEKLY

Christopher Vasi’s lifelong obsession with the guitar has led him through rock and blues into jazz and music from around the world. He has been deeply involved in the Richmond music scene since the late 20th century. Recordings include the Vesuvius cd and the Monk’s Playground project, reimagining the music of Monk using elements of funk, Eastern, odd-meter, New Orleans, and flamenco.

Chris is a founding member of Afro-Zen Allstars, the 9-piece global-music juggernaut that regularly thrills the Revelér crowd. He also stays busy collaborating with many other great musicians such as Roger Carroll and Blue Orpheus Orchestra and performing for all kinds of events, and serving as a guitar instructor for private lessons.

Monk’s Playground was resurrected at Révéler in July 2026 for the first time in over a decade. This show returns the group to the Playground to further explore the repertoire. The second set will highlight Vasi originals and fascinating arrangements from classic jazz to Afrobeat.

Vasi is joined by saxophonist Chris Sclafani (Afro-Zen Allstars, Say Less Brass Band, Soul Providers), trombonist Pete Anderson (Kadencia, Randazzo Big Band, Fatback), bassist Bob Bowen (Royce Campbell, Hod O’Brien), and drummer Forrest Young (the Emergency Drummer, Dane Alderson, Chris Whiteman) for an evening of fun and soulful jazz with some original tunes and a few surprises!

With only 107 seats, shows at Révéler are intimate and immersive. A romantic venue with exquisite sound and dreamy vibes, Révéler offers a unique selection of cocktails, wines, beers, bubbles, and non-alcoholic beverages. Our kitchen delivers small plates crafted with care.