In the early 1950s, Monk's career was hampered when his cabaret card (a license to work in city venues that served alcohol, and therefore, for a jazz musician a most important identification document) was revoked after a drug-related incident. His meant for years he couldn't legally play in nightclubs. By 1957, Monk regained his cabaret card and his career reignited. He took up a residency at the Five Spot Café in New York where this album was recorded on August 7, 1958: It was a heyday for Monk, with live interactions showcasing both his edgy, eccentric style and his band's ability to blend with his unique musical vision. It is an essential document of Monk's work in the late 1950s, along with Misterioso.

The records captures not just the music but the feel of a tight New York club -- glasses clinking, audience reactions, and a charged energy in the air. Producer Orrin Keepnews purposefully left these sounds in, to give listeners the feeling of being there.

Thelonious in Action documents Monk at a moment of renewal and recognition, finally back in the spotlight, shows Monk's ability to thrive in live performance, where his wit, timing, and eccentricity come through more vividly than in some studio sessions.

THELONIOUS MONK / THELONIOUS IN ACTION