Some of the most original, influential and perfect modern jazz ever recorded. Monk introduced his greatest and most unique compositions in these early years like "Ruby My Dear", "Well You Needn't" and "'Round Midnight".
Personnel: IDREES SULIEMAN, trumpet; DANNY QUEBEC WEST, alto saxophone; BILLY SMITH, tenor saxophone; THELONIOUS MONK, piano; GENE RAMEY, bass; ART BLAKEY, drums (#1-6). THELONIOUS MONK, piano; GENE RAMEY, bass; ART BLAKEY, drums (#7-16). GEORGE TAITT, trumpet; SAHIB SHIHAB, alto saxophone; THELONIOUS MONK, piano; BOB PAIGE, bass; ART BLAKEY, drums (#17-21).