Thelonious Monk - Monk's Music - Blue Vinyl LP Record

Monk's Music is often cited as one of the focal points of Thelonious Monk's six-year affiliation (1955-1961) with the Riverside label. Although the original disc clocked in at slightly over 30 minutes, packed into that half hour are not only the introduction of a few of Monk's signature compositions, but also some amazing interactions from the assembled ensemble.

Joining Thelonious Monk (piano) during these two recording sessions are Ray Copeland (trumpet), Gigi Gryce (alto sax), Coleman Hawkins (tenor sax), John Coltrane (tenor sax), Wilbur Ware (bass), and Art Blakey (drums).

"This is Thelonious Monk’s music in the most complete sense. These sessions have been particularly valued for the presence of coleman hawkins and john coltrane, two saxophone giants from different generations.

Some accounts of the recordings devote more space to the horns than to the leader. So, listen carefully to how humbly Coltrane plays on “Ruby My Dear”. He was still an emerging artist, to be sure, but his command of the instrument was complete, and he didn’t usually play with this reserve. Hawkins, by contrast, is determined to make his presence felt. He even comes in at the wrong place a couple of times." Brian Morton

Track list:

1: Abide With Me
2: Well You Needn't
3: Ruby, My Dear (Feat. Coleman Hawkins)
4: Ruby, My Dear (Feat. John Coltrane)
5: Off Minor
6: Epistophy
7: Crepuscule With Nellie
8: 'Round Midnight