Mingus In Argentina: The Buenos Aires Concerts

Album Description

"Mingus In Argentina: The Buenos Aires Concerts" is a thrilling, high-energy live album capturing the legendary bassist and composer Charles Mingus at the peak of his powers. Recorded during two electrifying performances at the Teatro Coliseo and Teatro SHA in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on June 2 and 3, 1977, this previously unreleased gem showcases Mingus' extraordinary musical prowess and innovative spirit.

The album spans a diverse range of jazz styles, including hard bop, bebop, free jazz, and cool jazz, demonstrating Mingus' versatility and genre-defying genius. With a setlist that includes both original compositions and reinterpretations of jazz standards, the double album offers a comprehensive overview of Mingus' musical vision. Highlights include the soulful "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," a tribute to the late Lester Young, and the fiery "Koko/Cherokee," which showcases Mingus' virtuosic bass playing and the band's tight, explosive chemistry.

Throughout the concert, Mingus and his band are in inspired form, betraying no signs of road wear. The performances are filled with spontaneity, intensity, and a palpable sense of joy, making for an unforgettable listening experience. The album also features a unique fusion of cumbia and jazz, reflecting Mingus' openness to global musical influences and his desire to push the boundaries of jazz.

"Mingus In Argentina: The Buenos Aires Concerts" is a testament to Charles Mingus' enduring legacy as one of the most influential and innovative figures in jazz history. This essential live album is a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Mingus' music, offering a captivating glimpse into the mind of a true jazz visionary. With a running time of over an hour and fifty minutes, the album provides ample opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich, complex, and deeply satisfying world of Charles Mingus.

6 juni 2025

℗ 2025 Resonance Records

About Charles Mingus

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.