Charles Mingus: "Mingus Dynasty"

Tonight's Jazz Feature is one of Charles Mingus' masterpieces that was recorded , as were many other iconic Jazz recordings in 1959. It is overlooked sometimes as it was Mingus' second album from that year. He really scored with "Mingus Ah Um" his first for Columbia. Not only did it lift Mingus from the "underground" category but got massive critical acclaim and was Mingus' best selling record. His second, tonight's Jazz Feature was called "Mingus Dynasty" and Mingus was able to augment his regular working band with added musicians to expand the ensembles and enable him to explore more complex writing as well. His working group included Richard Williams on trumpet, Jimmy Knepper on trombone, John Handy on alto saxophone, Booker Ervin on tenor saxophone, Roland Hanna on piano and of course, Dannie Richmond on drums and Mingus on bass. Added on many of the selections in non-soloing roles are Benny Golson on tenor saxophone, Jerome Richardson on baritone saxophone and flute, Teddy Charles on vibes and even two cellos on a couple of selections. This album ranks among Mingus' best and the tunes vary from some Ellington tributes in two tunes to Mingus' original creations ranging from the gospel flavored "Slop" to the formal masterwork "Far Wells, Mill Valley". "Mingus Dynasty" will challenge and inspire you...guaranteed!