Thelonious Monk had a long and productive contract with Columbia records but in 1968 it was coming to an end. Soon after his saxophonist of 11 years, Charlie Rouse was leaving and Monk's health was a bit fragile as well. This was the penultimate Columbia album and the final documentation of Monk's working Quartet. The album was called "Underground" and it's iconic cover won more awards and attention than the fine music therein. The album featured some brand new compositions by Monk and 3 delightful trio tracks without Rouse. One rare track was with vocalist Jon Hendricks who sung his words to Monk's tune "In Walked Bud". That in itself was something very new for Monk. The 3 full Quartet tracks with Charlie Rouse on tenor saxophone, Larry Gales on bass and Ben Riley on drums are superb and the 3 tracks are all brand new Monk compositions. "Boo Boo's Birthday" is for Monk's daughter Barbara and a wonderful ballad in 3/4 time (Monk's only waltz) is called "Ugly Beauty" and the best is "Green Chimneys" in which the band stretches out for 13 minutes.This is one fine album and was recorded in December 1967 to February 1968. Check it out this evening or when you have time...it's worth it!

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