This out-of-print album(I purchased a used copy)is a very special compilation of Thelonious Monk compositions arranged and performed by many artists, both from the Jazz and Rock and other musical worlds. It was produced by Hal Willner, well-known for unusual compilation treatments of great musicians.(Another one is on Kurt Weill). What's great about the pieces is how much of the iconoclastic spirit of Monk's originals is retained, while at the same time demonstrating the originality of the interpreters. For instance, Joe Jackson(no stranger to jazz influences)does a hypnotic version of Monk's 'Round Midnight" for large orchestral ensemble and piano; Dr. John does a New Orleans-inspired piano solo of "Blue Monk"; jazz pianist Barry Harris plays the iconic "Pannonica" with harpsichord effects on a "tack" piano; Chris Spedding & Peter Frampton turn Monk's "Work" into a cerebral rock duet. Buyers should know that the original 2 LP set released in 1984 on A&M(also available used)contains several more tracks that are left off the single CD, including some more bizarre explorations of Monk tunes by John Zorn and Eugene Chadborne. If you want it all, you should buy the 2 LP set. The single CD is still about 70 minutes long and contains the bulk of the material. Highly recommended to both Monk enthusiasts and fans of the various performing artists involved!