Charles Mingus - Lionels Sessions

Review by Dustyn McNichol

Charles Mingus' album "Lionel Sessions" is a masterpiece of jazz music. Released in 1991, the album features the legendary bassist and composer Mingus in a series of recordings from the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing his exceptional talent and creativity.

The album includes several tracks that have become classics in the jazz canon, such as "Take the A Train" and "Jump Monk". Mingus' unique style of composing and arranging is evident throughout the album, as he seamlessly blends elements of swing, bebop, and free jazz to create a sound that is both complex and accessible.

One standout track on the album is "Pithecanthropus Erectus", a piece that Mingus wrote as a tribute to the evolution of man. The track features a complex arrangement that builds in intensity, with Mingus' bass providing a driving force that propels the music forward.

Another highlight of the album is "Reincarnation of a Lovebird", a composition that Mingus wrote for his friend and fellow musician Charlie Parker. The track features a soaring saxophone solo by Jackie McLean, accompanied by Mingus' bass and Dannie Richmond's drums.

Summary by Dustyn McNichol

"Lionel Sessions" is a must-listen for any fan of jazz music. Mingus' talent and creativity are on full display throughout the album, making it a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.