Charles Mingus – Tijuana Moods

With Charlie Mingus, leader and bass; Jimmy Knepper, trombone; Curtis Porter (Shafi Hadi), alto sax; Clarence Shaw, trumpet. “This is the best recording I ever made.” – Charlie Mingus. Originally recorded in 1957 but not released until 1962.

“It has often been said that Mingus forced and pressured his sidemen to play above their potential, and that is certainly true of this project. Altoist Shafi Hadi (who doubles on tenor) is in blazing form on ‘Ysabel’s Table Dance,’ while trumpeter Clarence Shaw (who was praised by Mingus for his short lyrical solo on “Flamingo”) sounds quite haunting on ‘Los Mariachis.’ Trombonist Jimmy Knepper and drummer Dannie Richmond made other great recordings, but they are in particularly superior form throughout this session, as is the obscure pianist Bill Triglia. Completing the band is Ysabel Morel on vocals and Frankie Dunlop on castanets. While ‘Dizzy’s Moods’ is based on ‘Woody’N You,’ and ‘Flamingo’ is given a fresh treatment, the other three songs are quite original, with ‘Tijuana Gift Shop’ having a catchy, dissonant riff that sticks in one’s mind. The passionate playing, exciting ensembles, and high-quality compositions make this a real gem, and it represents one of Charles Mingus’ finest hours.” — AllMusic.com