CD The Thelonious Monk Quintet – 5 By Monk By 5

Experience a pivotal moment in jazz history with this 1989 Carrère reissue of Thelonious Monk Quintet – 5 by Monk by 5. Originally recorded during Monk’s late-Riverside period, this album stands out for its unique quintet formation, augmenting Monk’s legendary quartet with the addition of Thad Jones on cornet.

The session features five extended tracks that showcase Monk’s signature angular piano voicings and inventive arrangements. The tracklist balances established classics with then-new compositions, most notably the whimsical and spirited “Jackie-ing.” This recording is also significant for capturing the emerging chemistry between Monk and tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse, supported by the formidable rhythm section of Sam Jones and Art Taylor.

Release Highlights:

• Artist: Thelonious Monk Quintet (featuring Thad Jones, Charlie Rouse, Sam Jones, and Art Taylor).
• Format: 1989 Carrère CD Reissue.
• Genre: Bebop / Hard Bop.
• Key Tracks: "Jackie-ing" and three other core Monk compositions.
• Significance: A historically documentative release that offers a rare quintet perspective on Monk's mid-century catalog.

Whether you are a completist looking to explore the Riverside era or a fan of Rouse’s early contributions to the Monk legacy, this album serves as a fascinating, polarising, and essential document of jazz evolution.