Monk's second album for Riverside continued the label's initial plan–to broaden his audience by the use of recognizable standard tunes instead of his somewhat frightening originals. Thelonious's uncompromising performances, major-league support (Art Blakey and Oscar Pettiford), and strong material all helped turn this concept into lastingly superior jazz. Particularly notable are his sharp thrusts of humor on such well-worn pieces as "Honeysuckle Rose" and "Tea for Two." The album's impact was strengthened by one of the most unique covers ever devised (Riverside went so far as to print quantities of almost postage-sized Monk stamps; quite a few found their way through the mails!).

with Oscar Pettiford, Art Blakey