{"title":"Thelonious Monk","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbout Thelonious Monk\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThelonious Sphere Monk was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina in 1917 and raised in the San Juan Hill neighborhood of New York City. He died in 1982. As a pianist and composer, Monk was central to the development of bebop in the 1940s and went on to become one of the most influential and instantly recognizable voices in jazz. He recorded for a succession of important labels, including Blue Note, Prestige, Riverside, and Columbia, and was the subject of widespread acclaim by the end of his life.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSound and style\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMonk's style is among the most distinctive in jazz: angular, dissonant melodies, unexpected rhythmic accents, dramatic pauses, and a percussive, idiosyncratic touch at the piano. His compositions combine deep harmonic sophistication with a wry, playful sensibility, and many have become enduring standards studied and performed worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDiscography highlights\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGenius of Modern Music (Blue Note, recorded late 1940s-early 1950s)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrilliant Corners (1957, Riverside)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonk's Dream (1963, Columbia)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolo Monk (1965, Columbia)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFor collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMonk's catalog is among the most collected in jazz. Original Blue Note, Prestige, and Riverside pressings are highly prized, and audiophile reissue series and box sets (including the complete label recordings) are common targets for jazz collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhere to start\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eListeners new to Thelonious Monk often start with Brilliant Corners (1957) or Monk's Dream (1963). For related listening, see \u003cspan class=\"related-collections\"\u003eExplore more: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/jazz-vinyl-records\"\u003eJazz\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e and \u003cspan class=\"related-collections\"\u003eExplore more: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/jazz-vinyl-records\"\u003eJazz\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-straight-no-chaser-cd","title":"Straight No Chaser CD","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis masterwork from jazz piano’s most uncommon voice find Monk and his quartet exploring every texture, tone and melodic turn of seven expansive tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540726034615,"sku":"210000051373","price":11.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/eyjidwnrzxqioijtzxjjagjhci1pbwfnzxmilcjrzxkioijwcm.webp?v=1781154009"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-monk-s-dream-vinyl","title":"Monk's Dream LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eMonk's Dream is an album by jazz pianist Thelonious Monk that was released by Columbia Records in March 1963. It was Monk's first album for Columbia following his five-year recording period with Riverside Records.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540826435767,"sku":"210000032653","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/tm.jpg?v=1781154403"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-plays-duke-ellington-vinyl","title":"Plays Duke Ellington LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis LP helped to reinvent Monk's reputation, showing listeners that Monk was not just a \"mad genius\" but a structured and well-rounded musician with the ability to lucidly interpret and reinvent the works of another composer.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540826566839,"sku":"210000052531","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/thelonius-monk-duke-ellington.jpg?v=1781154403"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-monk-s-music-vinyl-original-jazz-classics","title":"Monk's Music LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eMonk’s Music is a 1957 album by legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk and his Septet.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541019177143,"sku":"210000093697","price":38.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/monks-music.webp?v=1781155107"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-thelonious-himself-vinyl-180g","title":"Thelonious Himself LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eReleased in 1957, Thelonious Himself is a solo album by Thelonious Monk. The only exception to this is the final track \"Monk's Mood,\" where he is joined by John Coltrane and Wilbur Ware.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541019766967,"sku":"210000097763","price":38.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/jazz_6f34d836-d9c6-4f88-813a-7f4e255a13c9.jpg?v=1781155108"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-at-carnegie-hall-vinyl","title":"At Carnegie Hall LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis never-before heard jazz classic documents one of the most historically important working bands in all of Jazz history, a band that was both short-lived and, until now, thought to be frustratingly under-recorded. The concert, which took place at the famed New York hall on November 29, 1957, was preserved on newly-discovered tapes made by Voice of America for a later radio broadcast that were located at the Library of Congress in Washington DC earlier this year. Blue Note. 2005.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541056204983,"sku":"210000032659","price":45.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/513v4zrajnl-sy450.jpg?v=1781155239"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-underground-vinyl-180g","title":"Underground LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eMonk, considered one of the greatest Jazz pianists of all time, recorded Underground in '67-'68. It's the last recording with the Thelonious Monk Quartet and one of the last albums he made for Columbia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541063512247,"sku":"210000060652","price":47.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/monk.jpg?v=1781155265"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-monk-s-time-180g-red-vinyl","title":"Monk's Time LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's \"Monk's Time\" marks an important chapter in his evolution, issued during the significant point of 1964 when he graced the cover of Time Magazine. This translucent red vinyl release encapsulates Monk's remarkable interpretation of tracks like \"Stuffy Turkey\" and \"Nice Work If You Can Get It,\" alongside an impressive ensemble featuring Butch Warren and Charlie Rouse. The LP stands as a vital illustration of Monk's innovative approach during a dynamic period in jazz history, where his artistry was both groundbreaking and accessible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785740595383,"sku":"210000087852","price":24.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4321961-3132239.jpg?v=1783045780"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-straight-no-chaser-180g-crystal-clear-vinyl","title":"Straight No Chaser LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's \"Straight No Chaser\" illustrates his unconventional jazz piano style, blending complex harmonies with a compelling rhythmic drive. The interplay between Monk and tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse provides a remarkable depth, particularly on pieces like the iconic title track, which has become a fundamental part of jazz. Released during an era of profound evolution in jazz, this 180-gram crystal clear vinyl not only reflects Monk's individual brilliance but also serves as a key work that influenced generations of musicians.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785755734199,"sku":"210000102251","price":47.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4464668-3467278.jpg?v=1783045819"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-thelonious-alone-in-san-francisco-original-jazz-classics-series","title":"Thelonious Alone In San Francisco (Original Jazz Classics Series)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's \"Thelonious Alone In San Francisco\" offers a striking glimpse into jazz's evolution, recorded in solitude yet brimming with emotion and technical virtuosity. Each note cuts through the air, especially on this 180-gram vinyl, where Monk's intricate melodies resonate with precision. This 1959 session opens a direct dialogue with the piano, revealing the expressive layers of tracks like \"Ruby My Dear\" and \"Pannonica.\" With Monk's masterful touch, this record commands attention and invites deep engagement with the heart of jazz.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785778475191,"sku":"210000104386","price":38.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4488234-3551673.jpg?v=1783045892"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-palo-alto-vinyl","title":"Palo Alto LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's \"Palo Alto\" is no ordinary record; it's like finding a gem in a thrift shop; a treasure waiting to be uncovered. Recorded live in a college gym, it highlights Monk's sharp wit and improvisational genius, with tracks like \"Ruby, My Dear\" giving a jolt to the jazz scene. Imagine Monk lounging on a piano stool, coaxing you to move a little, reminding us that music has a pulse, even in the most unexpected places.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785793286327,"sku":"210000051160","price":27.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3831463-2576723.jpg?v=1783045935"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-paris-vinyl","title":"Paris LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's Paris 1969 LP resonates with jagged jazz rhythms, steeped in the stark air of Salle Pleyel. Featuring Monk's dynamic quartet, this set includes pieces like \"I Mean You\" and \"Ruby My Dear,\" alongside a surprise from the legendary Philly Joe Jones. It stands as a vital record of Monk's late-era artistry, reflecting the intricate machinery of his improvisational skill.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785840242871,"sku":"210000032650","price":37.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/2308702.jpg?v=1783046067"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-genius-of-modern-music-vinyl","title":"Genius of Modern Music LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Genius of Modern Music LP by Thelonious Monk is a crucial jazz recording, featuring early tracks like 'Round Midnight and Ruby My Dear. This all-analog vinyl from Blue Note Records ensures pristine sound quality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785930158263,"sku":"210000076388","price":27.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4147495-2926232.jpg?v=1783046317"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-alone-in-san-francisco-vinyl","title":"Alone in San Francisco LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eA solitary Monk stands against the reverberating silence of Fugazi Hall, where each whisper of his keys crafts a universe all its own. \"Alone in San Francisco\" reveals Thelonious Monk's soul laid bare, with tracks like \"Blue Monk\" and \"Pannonica\" echoing the warm depth of his creativity. This isn't just a record; it's the kind of raw encounter with jazz that pulls you close, daring you to listen to the quiet intensity only a master can wield.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785945166007,"sku":"210000036508","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3660398.jpg?v=1783046361"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-solo-monk-vinyl-180-gram-audiophile-pressing","title":"Solo Monk LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThelonious Monk's Solo Monk LP is recorded on 180-gram vinyl and features solely his solo piano performances. This 1964 release is essential for those who appreciate Monk's virtuosity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785955487927,"sku":"210000100349","price":43.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/1993655-2729548.jpg?v=1783046389"},{"product_id":"thelonious-monk-monk-s-music-vinyl","title":"Monk's Music LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eMonk's Music LP presents Thelonious Monk's jazz compositions on premium 180-gram vinyl. This edition from Jazz Wax Records delivers high-quality audio, essential for any true jazz enthusiast.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48860515106999,"sku":"210000032660","price":20.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/1547450.jpg?v=1783653981"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.waxtraxrecords.com\/collections\/thelonious-monk.oembed","provider":"Wax Trax Records","version":"1.0","type":"link"}