Charles Mingus - Mingus Plays Piano (1963)

Recorded on July 30, 1963. Originally released on Impulse! in 1963. Includes original release liner notes by Nat Hentoff.
This album is unique in Mingus' enormous catalogue. As the title indicates, the famous bassist takes to the ivories-solo-to give life to his dazzling improvisational art. At first it seems odd to hear Mingus without one of his trademark interactive and exploratory ensembles. But the sensibility that he brings to this collection of piano pieces bears all the signs of the composer's genius.
In the first piece, "Myself When I Am Real," turbulence and aching beauty merge in Mingus' spontaneous unfolding of phrases. Such standards as "Body And Soul" and "Memories Of You" are given personal, harmonically intriguing readings that blend in seamlessly with a Mingus original like "Old Portrait." In many ways, it is a treat to hear the artist working in this pared down, quieter atmosphere, as it allows one to concentrate more intently upon the range and compositional brilliance of this incomparable figure.

Digitally remastered by Erick Labson.
Solo performer: Charles Mingus (piano).

01.Myself When I Am Real
02.I Can't Get Started
03.Body and Soul
04.Roland Kirk's Message
05.Memories of You
06.She's Just Miss Popular Hybrid
07.Orange Was the Color of Her Dress, Then Silk 0Blue
08.Meditations For Moses
09.Old Portrait
10.I'm Getting Sentimental Over You
11.Compositional Theme Story: Medleys, Anthems and Folklore