by Scott YanowIn the late 1950's/early 1960's, baritonist Gerry Mulligan participated in several recorded "meetings" with jazz musicians who he admired. For this set (reissued on CD in the OJC series), Mulligan teams up with pianist Thelonious Monk (who shares co-leadership), bassist Wilbur Ware and drummer Shadow Wilson on a surprisingly successful date. Monk and Mulligan blend together quite well on what was essentially Thelonious' repertoire of the era including "'Round Midnight," "Rhythm-A-Ning," "Sweet And Lovely" and "I Mean You"; the CD reissue also includes three alternate takes and has plenty of joyful spirit.