Charles Mingus - Mingus At Monterey (2025)

Any list of the greatest jazz artists of all time includes the legendary Charles Mingus. Bassist, composer, outspoken jazz pioneer, Mingus was an innovator whose legacy continues to inspire us. Over a 100 years after his birth year, we still celebrate his genius.

This tour de force live performance from the 1964 Monterey Jazz Festival captures Mingus at the top of his form and the height of his powers. Out of print for more than 40 years, this landmark recording was originally released on Mingus’ own Jazz Workshop in 1966.

This explosive set features career-defining performances of “Orange Was the Color of Her Dress, Then Blue Silk,” “Meditations on Integration,” and a searing Duke Ellington tribute medley. With a powerhouse band that includes long time Mingus collaborators Lonnie Hillyer, Charles McPherson, Jaki Byard, and Dannie Richmond, Mingus blends tightly orchestrated composition with fiery improvisation and bold political energy.

Mingus at Monterey was met with critical acclaim and remains one of the most emotionally powerful and innovative live albums in jazz history. The original liner notes captured the scope of praise the album received on release.

Remastered by five-time Grammy winner Michael Graves.