The Definitive Thelonious Monk on Prestige and Riverside contains previously released tracks taken from the pianist's and composer's stint with the labels from 1952 to 1960. The 21 tracks, aimed at the casual listener, include the
Monk penned classics " 'Round Midnight," "Straight, No Chaser," "Ruby, My Dear," "Bemsha Swing," and "Well, You Needn't." Appearing on these various dates are an extraordinary roster of musicians including
Miles Davis,
John Coltrane,
Coleman Hawkins,
Sonny Rollins and
Charlie Rouse. Although it's far from a perfect retrospective of his career, this set would make a fine companion to The Essential Thelonious Monk spotlighting the years 1947-1952 on Blue Note and The Essential Thelonious Monk on Columbia 1962-1968. Keep in mind that all the original albums remain in print as well. ~ Al Campbell