Album Info
| Artist: | Joni Mitchell |
| Album: | Mingus |
| Released: | UK, 1979 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Happy Birthday 1975 (Rap) | 0:57 |
| A2 | God Must Be A Boogie Man | 4:33 |
| Words By, Music By - Joni Mitchell | ||
| A3 | Funeral (Rap) | 1:07 |
| A4 | A Chair In The Sky | 6:40 |
| Music By - Charles Mingus | ||
| Words By - Joni Mitchell | ||
| A5 | The Wolf That Lives In Lindsey | 6:33 |
| Words By, Music By - Joni Mitchell | ||
| B1 | I's A Muggin' (Rap) | 0:07 |
| B2 | Sweet Sucker Dance | 8:06 |
| Music By - Charles Mingus | ||
| Words By - Joni Mitchell | ||
| B3 | Coin In The Pocket (Rap) | 0:11 |
| B4 | The Dry Cleaner From Des Moines | 3:22 |
| Arranged By [Horn] - Jaco Pastorius | ||
| Music By - Charles Mingus | ||
| Words By - Joni Mitchell | ||
| B5 | Lucky (Rap) | 0:03 |
| B6 | Goodbye Pork Pie Hat | 5:41 |
| Music By - Charles Mingus | ||
| Words By - Joni Mitchell |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
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Description
Joni Mitchell's "Mingus," released in 1979, stands as a unique and ambitious project in her discography, marking a significant departure from her earlier folk and rock-infused works. This album is a collaboration with the legendary jazz bassist and composer Charles Mingus, who approached Mitchell to set lyrics to some of his compositions. Unfortunately, Mingus passed away before the album's completion, adding a poignant layer to the project.
"Mingus" is a testament to Mitchell's versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories. The album features six tracks, blending Mitchell's poetic lyricism with Mingus's complex jazz compositions. The collaboration is a fusion of two distinct artistic voices, resulting in a work that challenges listeners with its intricate arrangements and profound themes.
The album opens with "Happy Birthday 1975 (Rap)," a spoken word piece that sets the tone for the experimental nature of the record. This track, along with "A Chair in the Sky" and "The Dry Cleaner from Des Moines," showcases Mitchell's ability to adapt her songwriting to the jazz idiom. Her lyrics are introspective and vivid, capturing the essence of Mingus's music while adding her own narrative depth.
One of the standout tracks is "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," a tribute to the late saxophonist Lester Young. Originally an instrumental piece by Mingus, Mitchell's version adds poignant lyrics that reflect on Young's life and legacy. Her interpretation is both respectful and innovative, highlighting her skill as a lyricist and her deep understanding of jazz history.
Another notable track is "The Wolf That Lives in Lindsey," which features haunting vocals and a sparse arrangement that creates an eerie atmosphere. This song exemplifies Mitchell's ability to convey complex emotions through her music, making it a memorable part of the album.
"Mingus" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised Mitchell's boldness in tackling such a challenging project, while others were less enthusiastic about the album's departure from her previous work. Despite the mixed reception, "Mingus" has gained recognition over the years for its artistic ambition and the successful fusion of Mitchell's and Mingus's talents.
The album's historical significance lies in its role as a bridge between the worlds of folk-rock and jazz. It represents a moment in Mitchell's career where she fully embraced jazz influences, paving the way for her subsequent explorations in the genre. "Mingus" also stands as a tribute to Charles Mingus, capturing his spirit and musical genius in a way that few other projects have.
While "Mingus" did not achieve the commercial success of some of Mitchell's earlier albums, it remains an important work in her catalog. It showcases her willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of her music, qualities that have defined her career. The album's legacy is one of innovation and collaboration, highlighting the power of music to transcend genres and bring together diverse artistic voices.
In conclusion, Joni Mitchell's "Mingus" is a bold and challenging album that reflects her artistic growth and her deep respect for Charles Mingus's work. It is a testament to her ability to adapt and innovate, creating a unique fusion of folk, rock, and jazz that continues to resonate with listeners. Despite its initial mixed reception, "Mingus" has earned its place as a significant and influential work in both Mitchell's discography and the broader landscape of 20th-century music.
