Thelonious Monk Quartet – Misterioso (Red Vinyl)

‘Misterioso’ is a 1958 live album by American jazz ensemble the Thelonious Monk Quartet. It is featuring drummer Roy Haynes, bassist Ahmed Abdul-Malik, and tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin. Along with ‘Thelonious in Action’, ‘Misterioso’ captures portions of the ensemble’s August 7 show at the Five Spot Café in the Bowery neighborhood of Manhattan. According to Keepnews, the pianist played more distinctly here than on his studio albums in response to the audience’s enthusiasm during the performance. Reviewers applauded Monk’s performance and viewed Griffin’s playing as the record’s highlight.