The Columbia Years (1962-1968) (disc 2)

This aptly titled triple-disc compilation examines Thelonious Monk’s final years as an active recording artist. The Columbia Years: 1962-1968 is a superior primer for those seeking a thorough overview of this fertile, expressive, and oft-maligned period of Monk’s career. In addition to embracing the bright moments from Monk’s early- to mid-’60s studio and live releases, compilation producer Orrin Keepnews — Thelonious’ original recording producer during his formidable tenure on the Riverside label — has included several restored performances and a few previously unissued pieces as well. The Columbia Years: 1962-1968 is subdivided into “studio” and “live” performances with each musical configuration represented. These include Monk as a soloist, in a trio, a quartet, and in a big-band context. These varied settings further augment Thelonious Monk as not only an instinctual presence on the keyboard, but as a craftsman of timeless melody, harmony, and rhythmic counterpoint. “Think of One,” “Blue Monk,” and a solo “Don’t Blame Me” are among the newly mined treasures exclusive to The Columbia Years: 1962-1968. As one might presume, there are no icon-shattering discoveries among the restorations or debut releases. In their stead is a resurrection of the brilliant sound lost on previous cassette and poorly mastered CD releases. Particularly notable are the live tracks with their tangible electric vibe. “Straight, No Chaser” — taken from the September 1964 Monterey Jazz Festival — draws the listener into its confidence with satisfying crispness and warmth. Likewise, “Evidence” and “Epistrophy” — taken from the soundtrack of the award-winning documentary film Straight, No Chaser — no longer sound out of phase.