Charles Mingus - Jazzical Moods, Vol. 1 (1954) {Essential Media Group Digital Download rel 2010, Digitally Remastered}

One of the most important composers of jazz, Charles Mingus was also one of jazz's premier bassists and a pioneer in bass technique. The classic recording presented here was recorded in New York, in December of 1954 and features Mingus on bass and piano with Thad Jones (trumpet 1,3) John LaPorta (clarinet, alto sax) Teo Macero (tenor sax, baritone sax) Jackson Wiley (cello 1,3) and Clem DeRosa (drums, tambourine). All selections newly remastered.

What I love about this album is that it is early Mingus establishing his own vision and path. In fact, this was his second album (the first was Jazz Composers Workshop.) You can already hear how he was to develop and evolve if you listen carefully and critically. His innovative use of non-traditional jazz instruments, such as Jackson Wiley on cello on What is This Thing Called Love, Minor Intrusion and Stormy Weather.

If you are a Mingus fan this is an insightful examination of his early work as a leader and one that I recommend. The album was recorded in December 1954 and released in 1955 by Bethlehem.

Personnel
Charles Mingus - bass, piano
John LaPorta - clarinet, alto saxophone
Thad Jones (credited on original issue as "Oliver King") - trumpet
Teo Macero - tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone
Jackson Wiley - cello
Clem DeRosa - drums, tambourine

Recorded in New York City; December 1954

Track Listing
01 - What Is This Thing Called Love
02 - Stormy Weather
03 - Minor Intrusion
04 - Abstractions