Charles Mingus - Mingus Ah Um (2LP)

"Mingus Ah Um" is a seminal jazz album by the legendary bassist and composer Charles Mingus, released in October 1959 by Columbia Records. This album is widely regarded as one of Mingus's masterpieces and a cornerstone of modern jazz. It showcases Mingus's innovative approach to composition and his ability to blend various styles and influences into a cohesive and compelling musical statement.

The album was recorded in May 1959 at Columbia's 30th Street Studio in New York City, a venue known for its excellent acoustics and used by many jazz greats of the era. The recording sessions featured an ensemble of talented musicians, including John Handy on alto saxophone and clarinet, Booker Ervin on tenor saxophone, Shafi Hadi on tenor and alto saxophone, Jimmy Knepper on trombone, Horace Parlan on piano, and Dannie Richmond on drums. This lineup brought a rich and dynamic sound to the album, with each musician contributing their unique voice to Mingus's compositions.

"Mingus Ah Um" opens with the track "Better Git It in Your Soul," a high-energy piece that combines gospel influences with hard bop. The song's infectious rhythm and spirited performance set the tone for the rest of the album. This track, like many others on the album, features complex arrangements and shifts in tempo, showcasing Mingus's ability to create music that is both challenging and accessible.

Another standout track is "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," a poignant and soulful tribute to the recently deceased tenor saxophonist Lester Young. The song's mournful melody and rich harmonies capture the essence of Young's playing and serve as a fitting homage to the jazz legend. This track has since become one of Mingus's most famous compositions and has been covered by numerous artists across various genres.

"Boogie Stop Shuffle" is a fast-paced, blues-infused number that highlights the technical prowess of the ensemble. The song's driving rhythm and intricate interplay between the musicians make it a thrilling listen. Similarly, "Fables of Faubus" is a politically charged piece that criticizes Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus for his opposition to school desegregation. The original version of the song, which included explicit lyrics condemning Faubus, was deemed too controversial by Columbia Records and was released as an instrumental on the album. However, the powerful message of the piece still comes through in its aggressive and dissonant arrangement.

"Self-Portrait in Three Colors" is a more introspective and lyrical composition, showcasing Mingus's ability to create beautiful and evocative melodies. The track's lush harmonies and gentle dynamics provide a contrast to the more intense pieces on the album. "Open Letter to Duke" is another highlight, paying tribute to Duke Ellington, one of Mingus's major influences. The song's sophisticated arrangement and swinging rhythm reflect Ellington's impact on Mingus's music.

Throughout "Mingus Ah Um," Mingus's bass playing is both foundational and expressive, driving the music forward while also providing melodic and harmonic depth. His compositions are marked by their complexity, incorporating elements of blues, gospel, classical, and avant-garde jazz. The album's production, handled by Teo Macero, captures the energy and spontaneity of the performances, making it a vibrant and engaging listening experience.

"Mingus Ah Um" has received widespread acclaim since its release and is considered one of the greatest jazz albums of all time. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2003. The album's enduring legacy is a testament to Charles Mingus's genius as a composer and bandleader, and it continues to inspire and influence musicians and listeners around the world.