Monk* – Monk.

A wonderful, piano-quartet jazz club vibe, nicely laid back with the occasional piano 'waterfalls' monk throws in from time to time - my favorite player on this would have to be Charlie Rouse on sax: the whole track opens up when he plays...
Nice recording - can hear the breaths on the sax reed, the brushes on the ride cymbal, the occasional tape/mic distortion when the sax is too hot, My copy was a Goodwill find for $.99 and cannot complain about an occasional scuffy or pop - very happy with the tracks - great lp!

Excellence.good quality pressing.
Really good sound.this is a really audiophil LP.

Quiet, dynamic, very well sounding pressing. The vinyl is flat and free of dust or dirt. Silver/black marbled colour composes well with a silver black sleeve. Big plus for poly lined record envelope. Well done, Music on Vinyl! Number 1309/1500.

This is a mid-1980’s reissue, it is certainly not from 1965!

Une qualité d enregistrement remarquable, le piano sonne avec beaucoup de réalisme, les instruments sont parfaitement à leur place J adore

Here's a clever collection of Monk plus trio including Charlie Rouse on tenor. There are two compositions by Monk on the record, including a classic telling of "Panonnica". Playing is relaxed and enjoyable with a little stretching for some improv. Rouse frequently finds himself doubling the melody at the upper range of his horn, so intonation is often loose, but it adds a 'wideness' to the ensemble. You wouldn't want it any other way. Quite out of tune piano, especially on "... I Love You", but that simply adds character.

Soundwise, piano and sax are bright and somewhat thin, missing vital mid-range and lower body. This was a mixing decision, perhaps to carve out space for the drums and bass attack. Who knows, but it doesn't sound great.
Nevertheless, one should not be put off by the instrument tones and should instead focus on the brilliant playing within, which is very lovely.

3.5 stars.

Mono version sounds amazing and a must have for any Monk jazz fans

Amazing and powerful sound. Get this release if you want to enjoy the Monk’s music.

This is a pretty exceptional press. The source recording is excellent and this copy is well-balanced and full with a great soundstage. Was quite surprised when I threw this on for the first time. Recommended.

Year could be 1976 or 77 based off the CBS Records promo insert that came with mine. Insert shows many “new releases” from those years.