Pay attention to the rhythmic duo of piano and bass. They up the tempo at every chance, with the saxophones leaving vapor trails of pursuit. One minute the tempo is at a blazing speed, the next, the horn section slows the meanderings into a gorgeous cat-like waltz. Oh, the simple complication of Charles Mingus. His role as a ringleader is both maniacal and laid-back.
Every tune speaks volumes without stepping on the toes of another.
There is no hierarchy of one number being better than another. Each song will bury in your soul and recollection will be like revisiting nine good friends. Copyright 2001, The Smoky Mountain News.