Personnel: Charles Mingus (acoustic bass); John La Porta (alto saxophone); Teo Macero (tenor saxophone); Thad Jones (trumpet); Jackson Wiley (cello); Clem De Rosa (drums).
Recorded in New York, New York in December 1954.
Digitally remastered by Phil De Lancie (1995, Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, California).
Originally recorded for Period Records in 1954, this fairly obscure early Charles Mingus session is a collaboration with composer John LaPorta, who is heard on clarinet and alto saxophone. It's a fascinating effort that shows Mingus' awareness of both modern European classical composition and cool jazz.
The set includes a mix of Mingus and LaPorta originals, plus freshly arranged standards like "What Is This Thing Called Love" and "Stormy Weather." Also on hand are the great trumpeter Thad Jones and saxophonist/producer Teo Macero. The album features Mingus' debut on piano.
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