Tonight At Noon by Mingus Big Band

06 Feb

Written by Mike Jurkovic
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If anyone still needs confirmation that beneath his fiery genius and thunderous creative temper Charles Mingus was a great big softie, this disc will do the trick.

Lush, lyrical, and romantic, the Mingus Big Band not only uncovers their mentor’s big heart, it also does a fine job of tipping Mingus’ leather beret to Duke Ellington, a man deeply loved, admired and respected by the grand bassist.

Highlights abound, notably the time shifting perfection of ‘Passions Of A Woman Loved’. The entire ensemble giving voice to seamless tempo changes and memorable melody. Alex Foster leads the dynamic classic ‘Black Saint And The Sinner Lady’. With a sharp lyric and vocal twist, Elvis Costello deepens the mystery of the moody Mingus set piece ‘Invisible Lady’.

‘Tonight At Noon’ also marks the recording debut of the Charles Mingus Orchestra, which truly declares all the eloquence Mingus heard in his head, and most importantly, his heart.