Broadcast on 27-Oct-2008

This is one of Monk's most important recordings and set the stage for his return to the forefront of Jazz. In the early 50's Monk, although his recordings for Blue Note and Prestige are now classics, was brushed aside by the forces in Jazz and didn't work very much. He was generally dismissed as a mildly interesting eccentric...nothing more. He did, however have a small following among musicians and fans. It wasn't until Orrin Keepnews, one of the owners of Riverside Records, bought out Monk's contract from Prestige and established a trusting relationship with Thelonious. Keepnews recorded two fine trio albums, the first being all Duke Ellington tunes and the second an album of Monk selected standards. They sold reasonably well and people began to take notice of this neglected genius. The third album is tonight's Feature....and it's the 'real deal'. Monk's music played by a band of his favourite players including Sonny Rollins,Max Roach, Oscar Pettiford and the great unheralded alto saxophonist Ernie Henry. One tune features Clark Terry, Monk's good friend and one of his favourite trumpet players. One tune is a piano solo on a standard (I Surrender Dear) done in one take. This album called "Brilliant Corners" brought Monk back from obscurity and was the beginning of his ascent to greatness....his work permit was granted to play in New York clubs and his quartet with John Coltrane was right around the corner.....the rest as they say is history.