Recorded over two days at San Francisco’s Fugazi Hall, this 1959 sequel to Monk’s Thelonious Himself once again shows off what a brilliant solo pianist he was. These sessions found Monk in a relaxed mood that led to some of his most thoughtful and moving playing, highlighted by the rich and warm sound from the concert hall. Theprogram maintains a winning balance among Monk’s classic ballad creations, his blunt blues lines (with debut performances of Bluehawk and Round Lights), and a selection of pop tunes from his youth including the obscure There's Danger in Your Eyes, Cherie. Once considered too eccentric and complex to be appreciated by listeners and other musicians, Thelonious Sphere Monk (1917-82) has become a standard of excellence, recognized as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz. He was one of the architects of bebop and his impact as a composer and pianist has had a profound influence on every genre of music.