Charles Mingus: Live At Montreux 1975 (2008)

The band kicks off with "Devil Blues" on which George Adams gets a chance to holler the blues in his dry, raspy, hoary voice. That's a fine start and the band gets into the groove playing with intensity, never letting a moment slip. And when it comes to "Sue's Changes" they extend the tune to 25 minutes, casting, shaping, moulding, and giving it a depth of virtuosity through the several moods it channels. Time serves to forge another masterpiece on the anvil of cogent improvisation.
There is more great music when Gerry Mulligan and Benny Bailey come in for the last two songs. Mulligan defines the art of the baritone saxophone. There he is charting his course with a rippling stream of ideas and exchanging fours with Mingus. And even as that quickens the pulse (of the viewer), there is no denying Bailey. His solos are exemplary, burning with a quiet fire, giving the music a simmering heat.
The film is in standard format and runs 85 minutes. And one can either play the whole concert or select songs. Whichever way it works, this is certainly a prime musical document.

Artists:
- Charles Mingus: Bass
- Don Pullen (guest): Piano
- Dannie Richmond (guest): Drums
- George Adams (guest): Sax, Flute, Vocals
- Jack Walrath (guest): Trumpet
- Gerry Mulligan (guest): Sax
- Benny Bailey (guest): Trumpet

Tracklist:
01. Devil Blues (Charles Mingus, Don Pullen, Dannie Richmond, George Adams, Jack Walrath)
02. Free Cell Block F, 'Tis Nazi Usa (Charles Mingus, Don Pullen, Dannie Richmond, George Adams, Jack Walrath)
03. Sue's Changes (Charles Mingus, Don Pullen, Dannie Richmond, George Adams, Jack Walrath)
04. Goodbye Pork Pot Pie Hat (Charles Mingus, Don Pullen, Dannie Richmond, Gerry Mulligan, Benny Bailey)
05. Take The 'A' Train (Charles Mingus, Don Pullen, Dannie Richmond, Gerry Mulligan, Benny Bailey)

Features:
- Direct Scene Access
- Interactive Menu