Audiophile reissue of Thelonious Monk's second album for Columbia. For this outing the eccentric pianist was joined by Charlie Rouse on tenor saxophone, bassist John Ore and Frankie Dunlop on drums. The quartet moves through six of Monk's compositions and two standards, delivering unique and compelling takes of the previously released material. Monk's impeccable piano playing ties the group together on this heavily swinging album. From his vamping behind Rouse's solos to his idiosyncratic stride piano on "Eronel" there is much to keep you moving. One gets the sense that the spirit was high at these sessions, as there's a sense of playfulness and positivity that comes across in the playing.

• mastered from original analog tapes by Bernie Grundman
• pressed on 180 gram audiophile-grade vinyl at Pallas Group in Germany
• numbered limited edition of 2,000 copies
• music label: Columbia 1963 / ORG Music 2014

reviewed by Cool Hand 01/2015