The newly remastered vinyl of Charles Mingus' Columbia debut album captures the vibrant essence of his 1959 work. It opens and closes with a solo bass riff, featuring Dannie Richmond’s powerful drumming. The album offers a mix of styles, from the sophisticated "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," which pays homage to Lester Young, to the lively "Boogie Stop Shuffle," and the Duke Ellington-inspired "Open Letter to Duke." It reflects both the swing and bop eras and hints at the emerging "new thing." The politically charged "Fables of Faubus" critiques segregation, though its original lyrics were censored. Mingus’ playful and accessible side is evident, especially in the humorous "Jelly Roll." The Spanish remastered vinyl pressing, produced in the Czech Republic, delivers a warm, clean sound with authentic liner notes and a refreshed presentation.
