Impulse!, 2020

Thelonious Monk’s 1968 concert at a California High School was recorded by a janitor and left unheard on the shelf for decades. Finally available, it captures the legendary pianist and bebop originator, backed by the crack unit of saxophonist Charlie Rouse, bassist Larry Gales and drummer Ben Riley, roaring through a selection of Monk classics including “Well, You Needn’t” and “Epistrophy.” Bursting with energy and enthusiasm, it’s a chance to hear one of the all-time great small bands of jazz letting their hair down and having serious fun.