Jackson Free Press

As composer and improviser, the significance of pianist Thelonious Monk in the world of modern jazz mustn't be underestimated. Many of his tunes such as "Blue Monk" and "Epistropy" have become well-worn jazz themes, and his oblique approach to melodic improvisation, angular and unpredictable, has influenced countless musicians in and out of jazz since his arrival in the late 1940s with the now canonized Blue Note recordings. Now comes a collection from the family vault (under the auspices of Thelonious' son, T.S. Monk and producer Joel Dorn) on Hyena records. Entitled "Monk 'Round the World," this is a sampling of live performances caught mainly in Europe from 1961 to 1964, straight out of Monk's "late" period. As an example of what he was up to during that time. this is a safe bet, notable as always for the contributions of tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse, one of Monk's most stalwart collaborators. His bluesy tone is a highlight on all the tracks found here, which include fine versions of "Ruby My Dear" and "Rhythm A Ning." The CD is especially valuable for a bonus DVD capturing Monk's then-quartet performing three songs live in London in 1965.