“Genius of Modern Music (Volume Two)” – Thelonious Monk

Album: Genius of Modern Music (Volume Two)

Artist: Thelonious Monk

Year: 1952

Genre: Bebop

Grade: A

Thelonious Monk’s Genius of Modern Music series ranks among the most influential music recordings of the 20^th century. By default, Monk’s 1952 Volume Two LP is one of the best sequels of all time; essential listening for any jazz fan.

Just like its iconic predecessor, Genius of Modern Music (Volume Two) is another landmark in bebop innovation. The interplay between Monk and his musicians (an incredible cast that includes jazz legends Max Roach, Art Blakey and Milt Jackson) is tight and controlled, working in seamless harmony, burning through the catchy tunes with a fiery intensity. Monk’s music always delivers, and Volume Two captures the angular, idiosyncratic pianist at an early artistic peak. This is a great album.

---