Charles Mingus with pianist Hampton Hawes: "Mingus Three"

This album continues The Jazz Show's policy for this month.....rare recordings. This album gets it's rare status as it is often overlooked in the many recordings that bassist/composer Charles Mingus did. The main reason being is that it doesn't feature his Jazz Workshop ensemble but a piano trio with bass, piano and drums. Pianist Hampton Hawes who Mingus liked from his early days in Los Angeles was visiting New York and as Mingus had this record date booked with a hip Jazz loving producer, Mingus wished to do a trio album featuring Hampton Hawes. His wish was granted and the date took place on July 9,1957. Mingus is definitely the leader here but Hawes is the co-star. The tunes are varied between standards and Mingus originals as well as an exciting Hawes' tune. Dannie Richmond, Mingus' regular drummer gives sympathetic support throughout. Not only do we get superb performances from Hawes but also some great Mingus bass solos. "Mingus Three" is a unique and very special recording and deserves a more prominent place in the Mingus discography.