a r t i c l e s Hordinski's Monk releasing fine live album Cincinnati Post 7/29/99 by Rick Bird Cincinnati guitarist Ric Hordinski's band Monk has released a beautifully recorded live CD that splendidly showcases his earthy, intricate band. The nine-cut ''Blink'' features material recorded at live appearances ranging from a WVXU-FM radio concert to what Hordinski calls his ''living-room concert'' for the National Public Radio show ''Echoes.'' 'There are a group of people enamored with the live thing,'' said Hordinski. ''This is mostly for people who have seen the band live . . . They seem to like the textural thing and the improvisation that is a big part of our sound.'' Hordinski, formerly the guitarist for Over the Rhine, shows why he's one of the town's best players, working wonders on acoustic and electric guitar and electric dobro. His dreamy guita r style ranges from jazzy wanderings to soaring sitar-like rock riffs and the occasional bluegrass twang. The band always retains a distinctive and mellow atmospheric style . . . Fans of Over the Rhine will enjoy Monk's elevated treatment of ''Circle of Quiet,'' first recorded when he was with OTR. On this version, the song really takes off. The CD is enhanced with a tour of Hordinski's studio and other pictures. Monk now has a deal with the Indianapolis-based Flat Earth Records, and the new CD should be available in most stores.