Charles Mingus:Live at Montreux 1975

Rating:
Summary: Mingus, Mingus, Mingus, Mingus, Mingus
Review: This DVD is a rare treat for Mingus fans. Besides the VHS of a 1964 Norway concert (which is difficult to find), this is pretty much the only video release of a full concert of Mingus.
The footage is from the mid 70's, close to the end of Mingus' career. The reason I rate it at four stars is that it is not Mingus (as a performer) at his prime, although he does shine on a few numbers (the opening of the first track is worth note).
That being said, the tunes are all great and the addition of Benny Bailey and Gerry Mulligan makes for a nice expanded ensemble. Highlights, in my opinion, are Don Pullen's cadenza on 'Cell Block F ..." and Mulligan's solo on "A Train" in which he is accompanied only by Mingus.


Rating:
Summary: Changes Group Live
Review: This fantastic DVD supplements the great Changes recordings on Atlantic. The centerpiece performance here is an extended version of the Mingus composition Sue's Changes, which perhaps tops in excitement the recorded version on Changes One. The Adams/Pullen/Walrath Quintet is also featured on Free Cell Block F, and on the Devil Blues. (For Harry Carney is unfortunately not included in this DVD.) The concert closes with two performances adding and featuring guest artists Gerry Mulligan and Benny Bailey, performing a superb Goodbye Pork Pie Hat and Take the A Train. The sound quality of the recording is quite good--Mingus is clear and in great form at all times (this is definitely before his playing declined with illness)--with the exception that George Adams is a bit undermiked. There are many great images in this DVD. Anyone appreciative of the last great Mingus group will love this DVD.