In August 1972, the Charles Mingus Sextet played at Ronnie Scott's for two weeks recording this live album over the final two nights (August 14, 15). I was fortunate in being present for one of the sessions of the run although probably not at the ones recorded here. Nevertheless, almost 50 years on the memories of that memorable night are rekindled with this 3 x CD set.
Ronnie Scott introduces the band and, for once, he doesn't tell any jokes. Perhaps, knowing the Mingus reputation, he didn't want to chance his luck!
Although the discs aren't available to buy individually, I've opted to treat them as such as there is just so much going on to take in in one go.
Orange Was the Color of Her Dress, Then Silk Blues appeared on previous albums with the two final words more or less reversed viz. Blue Silk. Whether that was intentional or a typo I don't know and the 30.45 mins duration leaves us none the wiser.
Jon Faddis was only 19 years of age at the time but already he was displaying the formidable technique inspired by his mentor Dizzy Gillespie. Charles McPherson had appeared on an earlier version at Monterey and he sizzles. Bobby Jones who, prior to joining Mingus two years previous, had worked in bands as diverse as Woody Herman and Jack Teagarden - he slots in to the manner born. Needless to say Mingus is a tower of strength throughout.
Noddin' Ya Head Blues is a low down dirty blues track that features pianist Foster hollerin' the blues like Eddie 'Cleanhead' Vinson who gets a namecheck in the lyric. Foster also plays mighty fine piano. The track runs for 19.53 mins and concludes with what is a first for BSH and probably was for Ronnie's too - a musical saw solo by drummer Brooks!
The complete album is due for release by Resonance Records on April 29 but can be pre-ordered.
I'm off now to read the de-luxe 61 page booklet that comes with the album then I'll be back to listen to the other two discs - Lance
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