Charlie Mingus

Experience the raw power and innovative spirit of Charles Mingus in "Charlie Mingus - Live," a captivating live album recorded in Antibes, France, on July 13, 1960. This historic performance captures Mingus and his band at the height of their creative prowess, just months before the tragic passing of saxophonist Eric Dolphy. The album is a testament to Mingus's visionary leadership and the band's extraordinary musical chemistry.

"Charlie Mingus - Live" features four tracks that showcase the breadth of Mingus's genius, from the hard-hitting energy of "Better Git It in Your Soul" to the intricate interplay of "Folk Forms, No. 2." The two-part "Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting" offers a profound exploration of spiritual and musical depth, highlighting Mingus's ability to blend religious themes with complex jazz compositions.

This live recording is a rare opportunity to hear Charles Mingus in his element, leading a band through a series of dynamic and thought-provoking performances. The album is a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of the 20th century's most influential musicians. With a duration of just 35 minutes, it's a concise yet powerful journey through the world of jazz, hard bop, bebop, free jazz, and cool jazz.

Charles Mingus was a titan of 20th-century American music, renowned for his virtuosity on the upright bass, innovative compositions, and powerful bandleading. Born in 1922, Mingus's career spanned over three decades, during which he collaborated with jazz legends like Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, and Max Roach. His music defied easy categorization, encompassing bebop, hard bop, free jazz, and cool jazz, and often addressed themes of race, gender, and social justice. Mingus's discography is vast and varied, with 51 albums released under his own name and numerous appearances as a sideman. His seminal works, such as "Pithecanthropus Erectus," "Mingus Ah Um," and "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady," showcase his unique voice and enduring influence. Beyond music, Mingus was also a passionate civil rights activist, author, and poet, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and challenge audiences today.