Changes Two

"Changes Two," released in January 1975, is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Charles Mingus. This 42-minute masterpiece is a blend of various jazz subgenres, including hard bop, bebop, free jazz, and cool jazz, showcasing Mingus's versatility and innovation. Recorded during his 1975 European tour, the album features a stellar lineup with Jack Walrath on trumpet, George Adams on tenor saxophone, Don Pullen on piano, and Dannie Richmond on drums, with Mingus himself on bass.

The album opens with "Free Cell Block F," a powerful track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. "Tis Nazi U.S.A." is a bold political statement, while "Orange Was the Color of Her Dress, Then Silk Blue" offers a more introspective and melodic experience. The album also includes a tribute to Duke Ellington with "Duke Ellington's Sound of Love - For Changes Two" and a dedication to saxophonist Harry Carney with "For Harry Carney."

"Changes Two" is a testament to Charles Mingus's enduring legacy in the jazz world. The album's dynamic range and Mingus's unique compositional style make it a standout in his discography. Whether you're a longtime fan of Mingus or a newcomer to his music, "Changes Two" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album was released on the Rhino Atlantic label, ensuring high-quality production and sound.

Charles Mingus was a titan of jazz, renowned for his virtuosity on the upright bass and his innovative compositions that spanned bebop, hard bop, free jazz, and cool jazz. Born in 1922, Mingus's diverse ethnic background and early musical influences from church and classical music shaped his unique sound. Throughout his three-decade career, he collaborated with jazz legends like Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, and Max Roach, and his bands were known for their collective improvisation and boundary-pushing performances. Mingus's discography is a testament to his genius, with seminal works like "Pithecanthropus Erectus," "Mingus Ah Um," and "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" showcasing his ability to blend various musical styles and emotions. His music was not just about notes and rhythms; it was a powerful expression of his truths and a fight for equality. Mingus's legacy endures through his influential compositions and the ongoing performances of bands like the Mingus Big Band and Mingus Dynasty, ensuring that his innovative spirit continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.