Jazz Articles about Mingus Big Band

Mingus Big Band: Tonight At Noon: Three Or Four Shades Of Love

by Jim Santella
May 1, 2002

Reinterpreting the compositions of Charles Mingus means planning ahead of time what Mingus created spontaneously in front of an audience. With his control-the-bass-line-rhythm, and with some vocal cheerleading, he'd have his band give its audience a thrilling performance every night out. The big bands capture that feeling in its entirety, and display it clearly and crisply; but without the same gusto Mingus always managed to project. This time, four of the ten pieces are performed by a different ensemble: the ...

Mingus Big Band: The Essential Mingus Big Band

by Jim Santella
November 1, 2001

Folks who are new to jazz usually know about Charles Mingus right from the start. The feeling, however, comes when you’re ready for it. Some feel it right off. Others learn about Mingus music gradually.

For over a decade, the Mingus Big Band has served its public well. Weekly appearances at the Fez in New York, international tours, and five grand Dreyfus recordings have served those of us who need frequent revisits. The emotional lift you get from Mingus’ music ...