Reviews (page 9 of 14)
Favorite Track: Track A - Solo Dancer
Like every great jazz album, it goes from moments of 5/5 to 1/5 at a second’s notice.
An extremely tough listen. Like listening to someone scrape their nails down a blackboard 🤮
Original and masterful 4.6
Really good jazz, I don’t know much about jazz but I like this
Straight 5*
No idea how to rate this one!! There was the occasional passage I really liked but mostly my ears suffered considerable pain. But then it all seemed to come together in a mad, frantic, final track.
Like nails on a chalkboard 1 ⭐️
This was quite good.
what a firework! crazy! nothing to listen to all day, that's for sure. but it's a monumental album that alludes to the film noir genre.
Great great album, I spun it twice in a row. It flows impressively.
ZAH GUH !!!! This is probably his most traditional sounding record, but it is still so unique to jazz particularly when you think this is only 10 years after World War II. I can’t explain how why Mingus had such a profound effect on rock ‘n’ roll but He did and he still does.
I enjoyed how the music was constantly shifting, always staying interesting instead of dwelling on a single idea for too long and becoming stale. I liked this significantly more than I expected. Very good background music that still stays entertaining
Cet album a réussi à me faire haïr les trompettes, c'est peu dire
Solid, probably sampled 1000 times
This is the brassiest brass to ever brass. Track c is my favorite. Chaotic and fast but great. The instruments sing in an almost human voice. Dagnabbit.
Uff findi sehr geil. Avant-garde isch für mich immer mega hit or miss und da isch en hit. Gib jetz mol nur e vieri, welli nöd en lieblingteil gha han woni jezz grad nomol wür lose
chaarlie! sötti scho lang mol würkli lose. ok lesgo. es isch glaub alles dure arrangiert? und etz isch irgendwenn sax solo und s isch extreeeem geil. zweite track mega en cartoon bum bum type beat. huere nervös aber finds etz no cool. hahaha de trompet redet basically. ok ha noglese es isch alles durekomponiert da isch craaaazy. finds sehr cool, sehr avantgarde aber es swingt. track C mega klavier okay aber s het irgendwie theme? OH GITARRE SPANIE TIME?? i check nöd wa lauft. me ghlöt zum teil dass mit overdubs gschafft worde isch aber da isch okay bi 1963. de schluss vo track C findi etz gommemode geil de schnell 3/4 swing isch sooo hard und es knarzt alles. letste song isch d hälfti vom album und etz wird wieder gitarre gspielt. afang scho geil mit bass. de guy cha gitärrele und de mingus spielt geeeil bass. ha s gfühl es isch de letst song ich mues etz e bewertig geh. aber nai s isch no mega viel musig. de piano interlude isch insane geil gsi und d melodie jetz nocher aaau. nomel nur piano. uuuh und denn wieder dissonanze und ballade tempo jazz time seehr geil. es erwatschlet sich immer e höcheri bewertig. bi öpe 13-14 minute wirds immer wieder schneller und langsamer und isch zt sehr 20er johr jazz finds geeeil
BLÖSER finds tönt mega mit dene schleppende blöser undem schnelle schlagzüg mitem bass track b het sochli atonali element (nenntmer das so? es tönt eifach amigs extra "falsch") take c chli wilder ala de rest bis jz tibiheitsch chani nöd mega vill dezue sege, ussert dass ichs eig easy gnosse han, wills au immer wieder öppis neus geh het, mengisch schön aber au sehr hüfig sehr unhinged
some of these old jazz albums are better than others but none of them are ever not good
Pretty amazing jazz. A wonderful cacophony.
A painful listen
Very cool, heard of Mingus but never listened
Early modern jazz at its finest. There’s a lot going on with some discordant notes and such, but it still feels mostly musical for my untrained ears.
this flew way over my head. very discordant material, but purposefully, skillfully.
4.5/5
This is jazz, not into this album at all
Sounds like you give a preschool class some wind instruments and drums and press record. Just can't get into that stuff.
I'm not sure I'm qualified to speak on the merits of Jazz, but Mingus is definitely one of the greats. I enjoyed this album more than any other jazz album I've listened to. You can feel the emotion poured into the instruments. This album produced more emotion from me than many vocal led albums. Best Songs: Track A, Track C Worst Songs: NA
Jazz at its finest
Not my style and kinda feel Eh! About it
I appreciate the artistry, but there was too much chaos and dissonance for me to actually enjoy it as a whole.
Weird but not offensive
Can appreciate but wouldn’t listen again, fine in a jazz bar but don’t want to listen to it sat at a desk
Из всех больших джаз-альбомов на rym, этот мне нравится, наверное, больше всего. Лучшая песня - Trio and Group Dancers.
Track A was such a dirty, dark track. I feel like it's telling the story of the sinner lady working as a sex worker. She finishes up with her client and heads to a bar. Track B feels like the black saint and the sinner lady meeting at the bar for the first time and there is this kind of balancing act of hitting it off but also there is some friction between them due to the sinner lady being a sex worker. It still kind of has this like dirty grimy feel to it with some like happy and sexy moments in there. Track C almost feels like regret. Maybe the black saint is feeling regret from what happened the night before. The black saint starts to do mental gymnastics because he enjoyed the night but also does not approve of the sinner lady. Most of this song is him dealing with this cognitive dissonance. Mode D feels like the black saint decided he couldn't deal with the fact that the sinner lady is a sinner. He decides to ignore the sinner lady and never talk to her again. This obviously is a difficult decision for her and you can hear some mental turmoil throughout the song as he's dealing with this. This goes on for a while. He's dealing with this pain the rest of his life. I don't know if I've ever heard and album tell a story this well before. This might not be the story that was intended but it's what I heard. The instruments are acting both as the conversation between the characters and also as the background music and it does such a good job portraying the emotions felt.
What an incredible, varied record. The sounds that this band is making are other worldly. There are moments where the jams are so deep that I'm not even sure I could describe the music as "jazz." The brass just waaaaaails. It feels like Modest Mouse at times, then they the flutes come in and kind of chirp like birds. I love how the Spanish Guitar opens and closes sections in different songs. The bass is so humming and grounding. He's working hard on that bass, it’s always moving and progressing, keeping the story flowing. I really love how Avant-Garde a lot of this record gets. I would almost describe it as heavy at parts. Like, it's not exactly easy listening. But it’s also somehow extremely digestible. Which is what makes it so fun, because each song is just going on an ever progressing and regressing journey. It and its down, but always moving. This record was brilliant.
This one was okay... Not much more to say really - it's repetitive instrumental Jazz.
Jazz Club! The album is great… really great. Not really my genre of music to put on casually - but I really do appreciate the musicianship and composition. It just gives a great relaxed vibe perfect for working in the background.
Interesting. Not a huge jazz fan, but this seemed pretty experimental.
Solid jazz album.
- Auch wieder was für verrauchte Whisky-Bars - Tendiere wieder ähnlich wie bei anderen Jazz Werken mit einer drei zu bewerten. Diese Platte hat mich aber wesentlich mehr mitgenommen. - War einfach ein bisschen mitreißender, roher und für mich greifbarer 3,75/5
Incredible jazz compositions. Charles Mingus gets it.
Another fairly tough listen. I like a bit of jazz but prefer a few lyrics thrown in, big band style like Harry Connick etc. This was fine but there wasn’t enough there to have me listen again, because it all sounded quite samey.
Shit a brick, I like a jazz album! For the first time ever in my life! That’s thrown me, what do I do now?
Conjured up thoughts of strip clubs. Classy ones, not too seedy. All a bit much for a Monday morning.
5/5
I’m rarely disappointed at the jazz offerings here. Mingus added a varied and melodic soundtrack to my walk through Mahatma-Gandhi park.
Swirling, mysterious, provocative. I love it.
Wat een force of nature is deze plaat. We volgen op ''The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady'' een mentale danschoreografie van Charles Mingus, die de luisteraar meeneemt in een chaotische reis. Ik hou van jazz waar de muziek ondanks die wanorde en confusie telkens weer op z'n pootjes terechtkomt, en bij de hand wordt genomen door intrigerende melodieën. De opener is in mijn boek één van de beste (deel)composities in de avant-garde jazz. Zo'n gelikte mix tussen spanning, duisternis en dissonantie enerzijds, en het lichtvoetige en swingende middenstuk anderzijds. En dat einde is pure extase, en is zonder twijfel een inspiratiebron voor vele post-punk bands van vandaag de dag. Bands als Squid, Swans en Viagra Boys maken gretig gebruik van dergelijk geweld. Het tweede stuk van dit album - dat als één compositie ervaren dient te worden - is 'Duet Solo Dancers'. Deze pakt de intieme melodielijn van Track A weer eventjes op, maar onrust en paniek is nooit ver weg op deze plaat. Dat hangt - zoals wel vaker - als een donkere wolk boven zijn muziek. De crescendo naar opnieuw een angstaanjagend slot, weliswaar wat minder dan in Track A, maakt de eerste helft van het album echt een attractie. Daarna komt de meest emotionele passage van het album, 'Group Dancers'. Echt een betoverende melodie, die langzaam transformeert in een ware tango. En zoals valt te verwachten bij een tango in groepsverband, ontpopt Track C zich tot een furieuze dans. De tweede helft van de plaat wordt volledig toegewijd aan Track D. Dit is een clusterfuck aan kalme fases en monsterlijke uitbarstingen. Kantje één had die balans precies goed, maar in dit laatste deel beweegt de muziek iets te veel in cirkels. Neemt niet weg dat die laatste uitbarsting echt ongekend is, en nooit eerder vertoont tot de dag van vandaag. Daar kan geen post-punk band tegenop. En de transitie terug naar de hoofdmelodie van Track A zorgt voor rust, en completeert de zenuwslopende doch fascinerende reis door het hoofd van één van de grootste jazz bandleaders ooit. 9/10 Highlights: Track A - Solo Dancer Track C - Group Dancers
Deze lijst zorgt voor veel aangename kennismakingen met het jazz-genre de laatste tijd. Ditmaal het meesterwerk van Charles Mingus. Gelukkig een betere productie dan de live-jazz-albums die toch ook veelvuldig terugkomen hier. Dit is het betere jazz wat ik echt goed kan waarderen. Ik blijf het een lastig en taai genre vinden, dus kan hier niet te hyped op reageren. Maar behoort tot het betere van wat tot nu toe is langsgekomen! 7/10 Highlights Track C
The extraordinary musicianship on this can’t be denied but it has to be tempered by knowing that Mingus was a angry man, prone to violent outbursts. He once punched a fellow musician in the face so hard it permanently damaged their ability to play the trombone. His anger is reflected in the music here - aggressive hard bop with diversions into blues and classical guitar. Apparently this was originally written as a ballet which is something that I want to see.
I know better other more accessible albums from Mingus, but this one is really great. Totally crazy. It's full of the things I love in other genres of music: full of contrasts, dissonance, experimentation, and just enough melodies to keep you afloat.
surprisingly intriguing
Far out man! Bit OTT for me but some really enjoyable moments and they can play!
I’m not quite sure if I’m ready for experimental jazz - I think I enjoyed it but it also filled me with dread. I also want to go watch some film noir now for some reason.
Very chaotic and sounds like bad guy in movie is coming. Jungle vibes
The opening to all 4 parts felt like the soundtrack to a noir detective film, the scene where the young PI discovers his love interest has been snatched up by a rival, likely an Italian named something like Alfonse who has a pencil moustache
Mingus ... I've listened to some of his music before, it's been a while. This was a good experience. Like a movie soundtrack sometimes, not so crazy. I'll come back to this one, and try more of Charlie Mingus in the future.
Good slow paced, but deep jazz. The types that would play in a fancy NY rooftop in a movie. Probably a bit too busy to have just as background music, but great if you want to actually pay attention to it.
I really enjoyed this album. Listened to it a few times. Will definitely be checking out his other albums.
One of the better jazz albums on this list. Very approachable, telling a cohesive story, with plenty of surprises along the way (spanish guitar, for example). I'm not an expert, but I think this album might be a good starting point for future jazz enthusiasts.
You can almost hear the smoke and sweat on this one.
would listen again to digest it more. liked it tho. Want to listen to some of his other stuff too.
Enjoyed every minute. Great jazz album
Divisive, noisy, different
Bastante bien. Me gustó el saxofón y música muy tranquilita y chilling
Es perfecto para escucharlo con cascos. Me gusta sobretodo el toque de la flauta travesera. Quizás me falta mas diversidad en cuanto la melodia.
Mingus was a mad genius and this album clearly shows it. Even after a few listens it's still has passages that sound like it's delivered from some extraterrestrial life form. It's remarkable his evolution from just a few years prior. This album get's 5 stars for the innovation and sadly it appears to be the only Mingus album on the list.
This is just on the good side of the fuzzy edge of what I can enjoy of this style of jazz. It’s dramatic and visual (or maybe I was just envisioning scenes based on “dance” and the album title) and interesting.
I'm not much of a jazz person. This was better then i expected. Wasn't bad to have on. Probably won't listen to it again.
Cool, an entire album that sounds like the orchestra warming up before they actually play songs. You know songs, those things with some structure, melodies, and other things that make you actually WANT to listen to it. I just don't get jazz, especially this type, at all.
Charles Mingus might be the single biggest musical impact on my life. 5 stars doesn't even come close to covering it
This was good, just not my cup of tea. It's not the album, it's me.
Sadly couldnt get into this
that's certainly jazz...
Jazzy
2/10
meh
When it comes to jazz music, my adventure, like many others, started with this seminal '63 Mingus record. And if anyone were to ask me where they should start with jazz music, I'd probably recommend this record, with the other obvious pick being Miles Davis' 'Kind of Blue'. Honestly, I'm no jazz expert, but to my ears, 'The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady' presents some of the genre's hookiest, most direct, versatile, and diverse-sounding music. I mean listen to the flute and piano-driven motif that's established early on in 'Group Dancers' and then bought back several times throughout the following medley. Or the flamenco-inspired guitar that comes in a couple of times backed by nothing but deafening silence or this lone saxophone that patiently croons along to it. And when the horn section comes in, it sounds so brisk and heavy, so full-sounding - it's difficult to describe exactly but it's undeniably evocative nevertheless. It feels like a cold winter day out in the city - as cliche as that might sound. Mingus, while being the bassist and pianist here, is also the genius composer behind this album. And it *does* feel composed, something jazz purists were probably relishing at the advent of the free jazz movement. It has its classical sensibilities but also easily slides into these chaotic pockets before seamlessly transforming back into its more structured and melodic form. I'd say this is best demonstrated near the ~11-minute mark of the closing medley. As for what I think this album is about - well honestly I don't know. This album does create a strong mood, though it's one steeped in abstraction and mystery. As the liner notes and names of the songs indicate, it's an album that often relates itself to movement or dancing with a song like 'Duete Solo Dancers' cooling up the tempo and the following 'Group Dancers' slowly boiling it up again before it bursts in the closing medley. Hearing this record for the first time years back as a kid who wanted nothing to do with jazz and its enigmatic compositions, this album really opened my ears to this kind of music. Obviously, with those floodgates open, I'd go on to not only listen to more jazz but also to more daunting projects in general. It takes a really special (and incredible) album to change the way you think about music.
Loved this album
1 - I’m sure this was revolutionary for its time, and it seems like there’s a lot of talent behind it, but my god why 39 minutes of pure jazz no vocals or anything. Couldn’t be further from what I like
This album made me feel a lot of things. I have a really hard case of ADHD and this crazy chaotic music made me feel at peace. My wife on the other hand could not stand it so I switched to headphones laid down on my bed, closed my eyes and just completely drifted away. It does not happen to me very often. I always need to be doing something else when listening to the music. Drawing, walking with my dog, exercising, the list goes on. It's very hard for me to just sit down and listen. Not this time. Thanks Mingus, you made me want to get into jazz on a much deeper scale than before!
I like this ok but not in my top 5 Mingus records. Since you asked, they are (in no particular order): - Mingus ah um - Tijuana Moods - Charles Mingus Presents Charles Mingus - Blues & Roots - The Great Concert
Although I don't regularly listen to any form of jazz, I always appreciate the chance to get exposed to a jazz album and/or artist. It's nice to get a distinctively different style from previous jazz albums in this collection, and I enjoyed the album and the ebb and flow of each track, although as with most instrumental-focused music (especially long tracks) I find it's sometimes hard to stay focused and actively appreciative, but not as much as I expected with this album. I could even sort of visualize the various dances over the course of the album, which even I'm surprised by (and would likely make my mother proud, as she tried so hard with my brothers and me to instill some sort of ability to appreciate classical music and the themes and storylines; in that sense, this album (vaguely) reminds me of an infinitely more interesting, mature and wild version of story-based classical pieces like "Peter and the Wolf" or "The Nutcracker Suite"). I think my favorite movement/track was "Track B - Duet solo dancers" (subtitled "Hearts' Beat and Shades in Physical Embraces"); but I also really liked the unexpected Spanish/flamenco guitar in "Mode D - Trio and Group Dancers" ("Stop! Look! And Sing Songs of Revolutions!"). I also just *really* enjoyed a completely unexpected experience listening to this "jazz" album. I liked it that the Wikipedia entry included the subtitles to each movement; I was bummed that the entry overall was remarkably sparse on details or even narrative flow, given how highly rated this album has been for so many people. I also appreciated the "1001 Albums" entry for this album, not just for highlighting how masterful the drummer is on this album at keeping everything moving in the right direction, but also for the broader context of this almost genre-defying album.
A little turned off by the farting noise in my right ear for the first minute or so but then things got nicely layered before breaking into a discordant mess then lurching into a groove where the bass really shines. It feels as if the instruments are competing against each other rather than working together. Interesting approach. Track B is more appealing--slow, languid with bursts of what sounds like something trying to catch up then coming together into a ferocious race. The rest of the album is a compelling listen--this is not jazz to play in the background while you have a cocktail and chat with your neighbor. This is jazz to play when you want everyone to leave so you can lie down and think about how much you hate them. Also, did someone say God Dammit on the last track?
Avant-garde jazz: some love it, some hate it, and some spend a lifetime trying to appreciate it (but do not love it). I belong to that last group.
Not for me
I was on the verge of hallucinations while listening to this
One of the top 5 jazz albums of all time. Takes you through a spiritual journey.
Very good build-up, but at the apex it definitely does get a little too noisy for me.
heard this before favorite tracks: all
Unlistenable to my ear
Still dont get jazz, but this one is dark and unhinged enough to earn an extra star.
Cant stand jazz most of the time, but this felt like a soundtrack to a 50s noir thriller... wasn't that bad.
4 tracks of very dynamic Jazz. I probably cannot appreciate it as much as it deserves. 6/10
A great jazz album - a little fluttery in places, but a good listen.
I assume this is good it's definitely an interesting lesson. I don't have the vocabulary to really appreciate it
Impressssive
I don't understand jaz. It puts me in a bad mood. I listened to this album in its entirety. The first track sounded like a bunch of kids tuning their instruments, and it just went downhill from there. To my ears, it's just messy, repetitive noise and it made me want to punch something.
Jazz noises Is this music? They are clearly musicians, but I don't want to listen to it.
I was not in the mood for this album at all Track C was amazing
I understand this is meant to evoke emotion - but the sad thing is I can only listen to these records while I work, and I just don't want to feel even more anxious while I work. Wish I could have listened during a time when I have the capacity to appreciate, but I don't - 2/5 Reviewed 20/08/2024
Jazz club with a chilled vibe
Ok, so this isn't my thing, but every time I was on the verge of stopping the album, something grabbed my attention and made me stay with it. Perhaps there's something there that further plays will draw out of me ... or perhaps not
not that it's not good, just not for me right now
Oh boy another jazz album! I still haven't figured out the appeal of jazz yet. It's not bad, but it is a lot. 5/10 Would I listen again? Probably not, sorry Dingus
It's certainly Jazz
YAYYYYYYYYYYYYY <3 solo dancers- 8 or 9 duete solo dancers- 8 or 9 group dancers- mingus in the studio is like: this is the most gorgeous and insane piece people have ever seen... drop it. 9 medley- 9 or 10 he saved me
I enjoyed it
Did this inspire every sexy detective drama soundtrack of all time? Is there such a thing as too much jazz? This asks more questions than it answers. 1.8
What am I listening too? This sounds like somebody put multiple musicians in one room that didn't hear each other and just played what they wanted. Didn't finished it...
9/10. It's a really innovative jazz album. Totally excellent. :)
The talent is obvious and overflowing. I just feel I'd just have to really want to get fully into jazz to truly feel the significance and history of this record.
It's very good, if not a bit screechy in it's more frantic moments
Very evocative and conceptualized. Does not feel meandering or indulgent at all. Very intentional and interesting orchestration. I quite enjoy Mingus 👍
these cats did in fact cook
Pre-listening thoughts: Ok so I know Charles Mingus from my American music class but all I know is he’s a jazz artist from the later jazz era (that sort of late 50s-early 60s pivot). I looked at the track list and 4 songs at 39 mins is WILD (this is mostly cause of Track D being 17 mins on its own 😭). Jazz is crazy bro. I’ve grown to appreciate jazz music (some of it! Some bebop still isn’t really for me lol) over the past few years so we’ll see if I enjoy this or not. Post/during listening thoughts: So while jazz has grown on me I still have a hard time listening to music without words. It’s like watching a black and white movie to me like it’s just missing something and in this case that is the instrument and poetry of the voice. Is this good? Absolutely. This is mixed really well, with lots of instrument variety and different song segments and improvisation that show off different musicians who played on this record. In terms of jazz this is as good as it gets. However, me personally, I'm not gonna jump to put this on in the car ride to work or to dance to or anything. It’s a little shocking how fast the tracks go by considering how long they are. I don’t ever feel the album dragging. Its a genuinely good album but jazz is still not my genre of choice 6.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: nah, but I’m sure some did Fav tracks: Tracks B&C Least fav tracks: n/a
Like Coltrane, Mingus was an absolute genius who went from playing beautiful and engaging music early to pushing the frontiers of jazz so far as to create music that is almost unlistenable to most of us mortals. Ah-Um, from 5 years earlier, is my favorite point on that progression. This album has hints of greatness but veers off the road too damn much to be enjoyable.
Eh. Time has outrun this album
It's dirty and I love it
This album was relaxing and easy to listen to. Not a jazz fan so wouldn't know a stellar jazz album.
I don’t know a lot about jazz. This was the least chaotic jazz experience I’ve had on this journey and I liked it. Really smooth, nothing jarring or abrupt. It certainly earned its spot on the list.
Jazzigt! Tycker ändå det är helt ok. Mycket hellre detta än den psykedeliska rocken tex. Det säger dock inte mycket. Satt å diggade med foten, det är ett gott tecken. Bitvis på tredje låten blev det för kaosigt, massa instrument som spelade gällt. Då är det mindre bra. Första låten var bäst, kändes mest klassiskt jazzig. Sista låten är för lång för att greppa.
Gillade denna (trots att jag bara hann med en genomlyssning) och hade varit coolt att se live. Medryckande och kräver aktiv lyssning. Några partier spårade ut lite väl mycket mot slutet, men annars bra!
Can’t stand songs that are long though. 12 minutes???
Second jazz album I’ve listened to from this list(and my entire life). Hard for me to rate but I thought this one was a bit better.
Parts of this are so off-putting that it’s 100% the jazz ppl think of when they say they don’t like jazz despite never having listened to jazz. A bunch of this just sounds like the worst kind of all night bender feels.
soulful
dark and brilliant
Really really good, unsurprisingly. Mingus is one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
Reminds me of the music in some old movies I like. Mostly bearable jazz!
Perhaps my favorite Mingus album. Great to revisit.
Because it's jazz, but it's very hard for me. Although I detect moments that I love...
Funkin' awesome jazz. I like it.
All the things I hate about jazz in one album.
I liked the energy in the album, the first track started off poorly for my ears, but built into something I really enjoyed.
I enjoyed quite a bit of it. There were some very fun and different sounds, but a lot of the time it just seemed a cacophony of noise. Too much going on at once, at least to my uncultured ear.
Not an album, but a symphony. I can see why someone wouldn’t be into this, but it worked for me. What that asshat John Zorn wishes he could be.
I don't get jazz at all. Play some random nonsense that sounds bad and goes nowhere. Zero redeeming features. Awful.
Started to listen and made it through the first one, much too jazzy and instrumental for me
++: Track A – Solo Dancers, Track B – Duete Solo Dancers, Track C – Group Dancers, Mode D – Trio and Group Dancers, Mode E – Single Solos and Group Dance, Mode F – Group and Solo Dance 9,7/10
Not a bad jazz album. Very dark in parts and then interspersed with some kind of almost latin sounding guitar. Probably not one I'd revisit.
Even if I love jazz, I was left wondering when this album would get good, as no songs were grabbing me, only to see 4 tracks overall. Not sure why this is part of the album list
Wouldn't say its Charles Mingus' best, but an enjoyable listen none the less.
Good in places but a bit esoteric for me.
I don't normally listen to jazz, but this is a masterpiece. It combines the best of classical and popular music along an experimental vibe
It's good, but I don't like all of it. Favorite song: track A solo dancer
I listen to jazz, but this was not something I really liked, maybe I like more tuneful stuff... didn't do it for me
I was stressed out before I started this, and now feel decidedly worse. This is not what I needed today. I enjoy dream pop (e.g. Julee Cruise) and I did hear the occasional low tempo, moody section but for the most part it sounded like that bastard Jerry made poor Tom stick his fingers in the power socket again.
That last track got me through most of a 20 mile drive to work!
I'm not a huge fan of purely acoustic albums, and this one doesn't seem to be any different. It feels slightly repetitive at times.
Absolute crap. Sound like 4 year olds having a jam session.
This was my first time listening to a jazz album. I loved it. At first listen I probably would've given it 4 stars but the more I listen the more it grows on me. I like how it can sound so dissonant yet be so engaging and simply beautiful at the same time. Fave: track C
Not my usual genre, but bloody brilliant!
Hard listen to jazz uninitiated. But I like the energy it transpires.
I don’t often reach for jazz but when I come upon it and it’s good, I deeply appreciate it. This included.
I would love to listen to this live. I would never listen to this again not-live.
whole lotta nothing
For jazz this isn’t bad - they actually sound like they’re playing the same song which is worth an extra star.
Tremendous stuff. My favourite jazz record of all time
There were some lulls, but, I feel like I went on a journey that I really couldn't resist. This is a jazz album I'd share with anyone looking to learn more about jazz.
Music to have a psychotic break from reality to! This is mostly just a ton of noises not in harmony. Then something cool pops up and is quickly discarded. Ultimately, my dislike of jazz got the better of me here. It wasn't totally unlistenable though, so it avoids the dreaded 1 star score.
This is some seriously next level shit. Brilliant and clear production, this album will change your life. 5/5
One of jazz's most daring and exciting records ever. Its multi-segmented pieces range from avant-garde horn playing, beautiful guitar solos, to absolute sonic chaos when everyone starts to play progressively faster. An absolute thrill from start to finish, and a testament to Mingus' ability to elevate everyone as a bandleader.
A great listen
Freaking awesome!!!!
Passionate, vibrant and beautiful. Mingus has always been a favorite of mine and this record reminded me of that. It’s like he makes the instruments speak words. The mood is cool, sultry and invigorating. I wish I could have been alive to see him and his band perform live in their prime. What a virtuoso.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Mingus is one to watch. This is the type of Jazz I want to listen to.
This is heavy music--there's a lot going on here, and I don't think this is a jazz album to drop in the middle of a broader range of styles and say, "Here, this one is one of the best." It may be, but it's for hardcore jazzheads. I think "Mingus Ah Um" or "Mingus Plays Piano" is better for the general listener to get familiar with Mingus. This would be better suited for "1001 Jazz Albums To Hear Before You Die." Great album? Probably. Over my head? Definitely. 3/5, just because our esteemed editors haven't read the room. Including this album is just pretentious or lazy; not sure which.
Álbum caótico e barulhento do melhor jeito possível. As vezes é difícil esse tipo de som instrumental e desordenado "clicar" - ainda mais de primeira - mas quando ele "clica" é um sentimento único, algo que o que é cantado. o que é dito não consegue alcançar. Álbum que tem que ser ouvido na ordem: começar do começo e terminar no final, a divisão entre músicas é puramente para organização.
This is an album of ambition, contradictions, and competing influences. Jazz synthesized with classical, with some avant-garde experimentalism on top. Composition with improvisation. Tight and organized with freedom and expression. Makes use of a big band to make some experimental sound, with the instruments interacting in a unique way. Certainly an interesting album that I need some time to sit with. My first listen wasn’t super impressive, while my second listen started to come around. Not sure that many melodies will get stuck in my head but it makes me want to do a silly dance.
good stuff
I like Charles Mingus a lot, but this album was a little too "Swoozy," and I wasn't really into the classical guitar. So, it's definitely not a bad album, and I could see myself putting it on in the background, but it's definitely not a favorite or one I'm going to go back to often or really want to actively engage in, likely.
Experimental, Avant-Garde Jazz... So you know they're just making this shit up
jazzy
Jazz piano has my heart
Started out thinking it was frenetic and dated, ended thinking it was a cool, roll-neck-sweatered, Riviera boat-chase of a record.
The kind of experimental jazz that is too experimental for me. However, hella creative. I was biased towards a 3 instead of a 2 due to the inclusion of classical/flamenco guitars.
Very difficult to rate 1-5. A little too experimental to me, but still well executed.
love jazz and mingu
I'm sure if I played an instrument i would appreciate this noise. But I don't. And I didn't like it.
Short and sweet! I love the space and instrumentation
This was cool, didn't blow my mind but wasn't bad.
Shit freaks me out but slightly more groove to bitches brew
Very cool. Can totally see why he was influential. The sound is big and dark and serious
Correcto
Please...please...no more twenty-minute jazz songs. Please.
Feels like a bit of a forefather to Kamasi Washington. Melodic with a healthy dose of cacophony; definitely not something I'd put on for a quiet evening. Complex in a way that makes me want to listen again and decipher more.
Smooth jazzy feel with deep horns
This is at the limit of jazz I enjoy to listen to, much prefer Davis or Coltrane, but I cannot deny the technical genius of Mingus, so understand how this made the list. 3/5
Jazz isn't my thing really. The album was OK, but I'm not clear what makes this considered a great album.
Not for me
I'm sorry Charles Mingus, I wasn't familiar with your game.
It's jazz. Obviously, they are talented but it's kind of hard to listen to.
I've already had this??? Confused. It's in my history...
1963 !!! Intelligent, intransigeant, novateur, indémodable. Mingus reconnaissable entre mille !
This is what ADHD sounds like when you like jazz.
Not a jazz fan, apparently.
Did not like this collection of sounds.
just some stonking good jazz. it's jazz week at uni and I listened to this staring out the window at the very determined rain. it's 1pm and practically dark with clouds. today's album generation knew exactly the wavelength. I didn't want to stop listening, and I'm definitely adding this to the regular rotation! a revelation
Черный святой против грешницы. Ну тут по идее изи вин для грешницы. Но послушаем, посмотрим как оно повернётся Нет, ну фанки груви, но особо мне не вкатило
Fun. Jazz...melts into the background.
Essentially it's one track with 4 movements, so if I like one track I like 100% of the tracks on the album. Does that make it automatically 5 stars? It's a totally enjoyable jam, nice noir feeling.
I've listened to a bunch of Mingus before, but never this album. (I'd strongly recommend people check out his "Blues & Roots" album - jazz that ROCKS! 🤘) Within the first 30 seconds I knew I was gonna absolutely LOVE this - instantly transported to some over-the-top chaotically animated noir world - this is absolutely the soundtrack for getting tangled up in sinister underworld machinations at the behest of a femme fatale that's only told you half of the story! 🕵️♀️ Would love to see a dance performance to this, though would probably prefer something more modern/interpretive to ballet, but I'd take ballet, sure! Fave track - Let's say "Solo Dancer" as it's the gateway to the album, but the whole thing is sublime!
Second Jazz standard over two days. Duke Ellington yesterday and Charles Mingus today. The only previous experience I’ve had with Mingus is Joni Mitchell’s collaboration with him on her album Mingus which I like very much. As. Regards this album was excited to listen in full. Wasn’t exactly disappointed but I think the jazziness of it all straying into very avant-garde jazz was a bit too much for my current level of jazz appreciation. I’m trying very hard to get into jazz but this album is not for the faint hearted and not one to dip your toes into the jazz canon. I think all the jazz buffs value this album very highly so I am guided by them to accept this is a very good album of its time and genre and grateful for the list to introduce me to Mingus. 3/5 18/6/24
Very cool, so jazzy and bouncy. Was kind of cacophonous in places, but I didn't mind too much because it was just bopping and jiving and was fun. It was a short album, but I don't know if so much musical information for too long would be tolerable anyway. Three stars.
no, not today!
I'm sure this music takes soo much skill to create, and maybe accompanied by dance or as part of a live performance I'd give it its proper appreciation. Unfortunately just listening to it didn't give me any enjoyment.
evil trumpets
when i saw this was my album of the day i thought 'YESSSSSSSSSS' because it is so good
While I love most jazz, this album was interesting but not really my cup of tea.
I know nothing about jazz (or music in general tbh), which normally means I give its albums a 3 as it always feels a bit distant to me. Not this though, it doesn't matter if I dunno what's going on, I can't help but groove and enjoy it. Fav tracks: - All
Do people actually listen to this? Can I vote 0 stars? Did they pull non-musicians of the street, put instruments in their hands, and say play all togethere? Blah!
I honestly try so hard to like jazz, but it's few and far between the jazz albums I can hear and actually enjoy. This had some juice moments but too few sadly.
Jazz do be jazzin
Incredible jazz album, one of the greatest
Love this
Classic
Reminds me of being in the band room in high school before practice started and everyone is just aimlessly noodling
one shot album, those were great times
This is wild. It's organized chaos. I'm guessing that Miles Davis was influenced by this when he created Bitches Brew. I know Mingus' music, but didnt know this album. It was an interesting listen. These days it's rare to hear orchestrated jazz like this. I kept thinking "How did he write and arrange this?" as I was listening. I'm sure that the next time I hear this I'll appreciate it a lot more.
I've actually seen and heard this album before. I was in a roomful of guys proclaiming their advanced musical taste while it was on. What a discombobulated mess. It's not for me. I'm not refined enough. (rolleyes)
I’m just not a big fan of jazz
I wish I could appreciate jazz more, but it rarely does a whole lot for me. This album was more of the same- enjoyable as background music, and this one has some unique sounds that got my attention, but just not my favorite style.
Sonic storytelling at its finest. I don’t always enjoy jazz, but this was a great experience.
This album is working on all levels. Every instrument is played to perfection and just sounds amazing. It is on the shorter side but makes up for it with some amazing music.
Beautiful, Dark, Melancholic, and Touching
Amazing, took a couple listens to really appreciate it, would listen again
Jazz hurts my head
One of the best jazz albums of all time, Definitely a classic.
This was a quick lil listen. Lots of horns including that one from Jožin z Bážen…I feel like I don’t really know enough about jazz to know if this is good or not. I think I like percussion-forward jazz over horn-centric jazz?
This album is nice to have on as background music, the hats aren't as overpowering as normal jazz seems to have and it contains piano which I am a huge fan of.
I´m not into jazz. And this album is even more overtwisted than others. 🤯 Some nice tunes but in general no pleasure to listen to for me. 1,5
Opening track is amazing. So intriguing immediately, makes me feel like i'm in a dream fantasy world. I love the sound of this record, the trumpet is incredible. Such an incredible album. Maybe one of the best pieces of music I've ever heard. 5
Very 60s jazz. Felt like I was hearing the soundtrack to a mid-budget spy movie. 2/5
Even for Jazz, I didn't like it too much. And I like Jazz! Closer to a 3
Day 3 - June 4th, 2024 Anyone got a pack of reds? 4.5/5
I'm not well versed in jazz, so it's gonna take a few more listens for me to feel solid in my rating. But on first listen I really enjoyed this.
Sounds like the type of jazz going on in a 70s detective shows, with the lead narrating over the music about the crime they are getting ready to solve.
This type and era of jazz is right in the sweet spot for me. I hadn't heard this before, but I really enjoyed it. They just don't make em like this anymore, sadly...
An all-time jazz classic for a reason. 5.0/5.0: Iconic
1. zolo dancer - 1.5 2. track b - 1.5 3. track c - 1.5 4. mode d - 2
An all-time great, the best Jazz composition ever made. Mad genius front to back, and track D is monumental. Top 5 albums ever made handily, and this site's score feels a little racist, ngl.
Creo que iba tocando una nota sin tener en cuenta la nota anterior.
This was fine, but nothing extraordinary in terms of defining Jazz as an art form. Part of the album reminded me of the Taxi Driver score. The last track goes on forever.
This wasn't too bad. Kinda liked it as background music.
Jazz
I’m familiar and a big fan of Mingus Ah Um, which should be on this list! But first time listening to this album, this is different a bit more experimental Jazz, but I still enjoyed it, personally I prefer bebop jazz, to the experimental side of it. But this one had a nice mix of the two, added to my rotation.
Quite the journey. LOVED the start but it dissolves into a bit too much randomness I think. Still a really interesting listen.
Mingus is great, but this album doesn't hit me right. As much as I wanted to like this, I didn’t.
I listened but not enough but enough where I know I’m just not a jazz guy. I’m sure it’s decent for a jazz album.
Jazzzz
Chaotic. At times dissonant, at times lyrical, but always interesting.
Absolutely loved the last song, the rest I enjoyed but I would prefer a bit slower of pace. Maybe jazz is to much stress for me. Had a hard time deciding between 3 and 4
Jazz escapes me…
I really tried to listen and immerse myself but just still not appreciating the genre. I did appreciate this one and connect a little more than others before
I appreciate this as some good jazz music but jazz is something I only listen to on occasion. Have to me in the right mood I guess. But next time I'm feeling like some jazz maybe I'll explore more of Charels Mingus' work.
One of my favorite quips from reading Charles Mingus’ biography was the story of how he would stop a show if people were talking or clinking glasses, and if they didn’t cease the noise, he would pick up the mic stand and throw it violently into the audience demanding silence. A bit too far? Yes, but they sure shut the hell up after that. He was there to put on a show and felt it was highly disrespectful to interrupt it by not paying attention. That energy absolutely makes its way into his avant-garde jazz. Charles plays an aggressive bass on 4 very well constructed ballet movements that feel graceful and violent at the same time. This is top notch jazz for anyone who doesn’t know the genre well and is looking for a more unconventional place to begin exploring beyond the well worn standards.
This was certainly lively! Lots going on. Appreciate the talent and the emotional chaos of this, but jazz has yet to find a special place in my heart. I could see this being a favorite of jazz fans though.
just was not feeling this. sorry charles
Beautiful, dark. Kind of haunting?
I may have to listen to this again. I really like Mingus, but felt that this was too far out there. Though there were parts that I really liked. Did not think it was the masterpiece that everyone else does. 3 stars for now.
That's not my taste in musik.
Big band isn’t my favourite style of Jazz, but the way Mingus subverts the genre on this record to create an atmospheric and nightmarish soundscape, with interpolations of blues and flamenco, is astonishing.
Didnt really enjoy it. Maybe not in the right mood.
I’m not sure if I understand this. A lot of noise. Some pleasing parts.
BL: listened to this album once before due to it being heavily lauded by 21st century jazz heads on the web. Me being one of them myself was interested to sample the wares. I remember not thinking much of this, though I was around 15 or 16 at the time and hadn’t developed the taste for jazz that I have now. So I will see how it holds up on the relisten AL: this was a very good album. While to me it pails to something like Headhunters by Hancock this stands out as an amazing piece of song cycle jazz and I’m very glad to have heard it. I think it’ll take multiple listens to fully dissect everything going on here, but I’m sure I will be coming back to it. FT: “Track C - Group Dancers” 5/5
Full of dissonance. Difficult to comprehend.
Jazzy and lots of sax initially, but more than that. Very interesting piano on Track C. Then it becomes a Latin sounding fusion piece. Super cool. There's some great parts in the last two pieces too. Really a mix of genres (often alternating instruments and styles in the same track) but often melodic. Not really my thing; maybe it should be.
Album 412 of 1001 Charles Mingus - The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady Rating : 5 / 5 Not top rated in the sense of a competition with something like Automatic for the People or Dark Side of the Moon...but top rated because it is one of the best jazz albums I've heard. I'm no aficionado, but I know what I like.
Hermoso
Favorite Track: Track C-Group Dancers
This album was incredible. I can get why they call it one of the best jazz records of made. Mingus killed it with this one.
Fantastically chaotic
ok
Elegant in its chaos. I’d enjoy seeing this performed as a ballet like Mingus originally wrote it.
You want tripped out jazz?! You got tripped out jazz mother fucker! Mingus might be at the height of his career on this record, bringing in Spanish influences, African rhythms, and complex time signatures that keep you glued to what you're hearing.
I believe jazz to be intrinsically romantic and cinematic, and this album is a grand, sweeping sonic narrative—a heart-swelling, emotionally epic journey that encapsulates the seductive and transporting powers inherent to the genre.
4 Tracks of very upbeat, high tempo Jazz. Gonna go on a limb and say that the other tracks aren't cleared for Spotify, but from what I heard, this deff leaves me wanting more. Update: apparently it's just 4 tracks?!? Added them all, would love this in LP form!
What better record than this one
Would give this 0 stars if I could. Just noise. I cannot understand why people would like this.
Enjoyable (particularly the second and third tracks) , but I don't know enough about jazz to fully appreciate it
I don’t have any frame of reference with jazz music to know how it fits into the bigger picture. Easy to listen or work to but nothing Id put back on if I had a choice. Rating: 3.1
A nice easy Listening instrumental
This is the worst kind of jazz for me. No beginning, no middle and seemingly no end. It just meanders on like they are warming up their instruments before the show begins. But the show never did begin.
That's some proper jazzing by Mingus right here. I can only hope there is more stuff like this on this list.
Unfortunately just not my thing, although I will say (unlike other music from this genre) I did genuinely notice that the songs were different. So yeah I guess it was one of the better instrumental albums, but still just not for me.
It was ok. 2.5/5
Charles Mingus's "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" is a groundbreaking masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of jazz, merging various styles and influences into a cohesive and innovative work of art. Released in 1963, this album remains a pinnacle of Mingus's career, showcasing his unparalleled talent as a composer, bandleader, and bassist. In this review, I'll delve into the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, while also highlighting its pros and cons. **Lyrics:** Unlike many jazz albums, "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" doesn't feature traditional lyrics. Instead, Mingus utilizes the language of music to convey his narrative. Each movement tells a story, rich in emotion and imagery. From the fiery passion of "Track A – Solo Dancer" to the melancholic introspection of "Track E – Group Dancers," Mingus's compositions evoke a range of feelings without the need for words. This allows listeners to interpret the music in their own unique way, deepening their connection to the album. **Music:** Mingus's music is complex and multifaceted, blending elements of jazz, classical, and avant-garde into a rich tapestry of sound. His compositions are densely layered, with intricate arrangements that demand attention to detail. The album features a large ensemble, including brass, woodwinds, and strings, allowing Mingus to explore a wide range of textures and timbres. From the chaotic cacophony of "Track B – Duet Solo Dancers" to the haunting beauty of "Track C – Group Dancers," Mingus demonstrates his mastery of musical expression, captivating listeners with his dynamic performances. **Production:** Produced by Bob Thiele, "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" is a testament to Mingus's meticulous attention to detail. Thiele's production captures the raw energy and intensity of Mingus's performances, while also highlighting the subtleties of his compositions. The album's sound quality is exceptional, with each instrument given its own space to shine. Thiele's skillful mixing and mastering ensure that every nuance of Mingus's music is preserved, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the experience. **Themes:** Thematically, "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" explores the duality of human nature, as represented by the titular characters. Mingus uses his music to delve into the complexities of good and evil, love and hate, redemption and damnation. Each movement tells a different facet of this overarching narrative, weaving together themes of passion, longing, and despair. Mingus's compositions are deeply introspective, inviting listeners to reflect on their own inner struggles and contradictions. **Influence:** "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" has had a profound influence on the world of jazz and beyond. Mingus's innovative approach to composition has inspired countless musicians, from jazz legends like John Coltrane and Miles Davis to contemporary artists like Kamasi Washington and Esperanza Spalding. The album's fusion of genres and styles has paved the way for future generations of musicians to explore new creative territories. Its enduring legacy continues to resonate with audiences around the world, cementing its status as a timeless classic. **Pros:** 1. **Innovative Composition:** Mingus's compositions push the boundaries of jazz, incorporating elements of classical and avant-garde music to create a truly unique sound. 2. **Emotional Depth:** The album's richly textured music conveys a wide range of emotions, from joy and passion to sorrow and despair, resonating deeply with listeners. 3. **Technical Mastery:** Mingus's virtuosic performances and the exceptional skill of his ensemble demonstrate a high level of technical proficiency and musical expertise. 4. **Influence:** "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" has had a lasting impact on the world of jazz and contemporary music, inspiring generations of musicians with its groundbreaking approach. **Cons:** 1. **Complexity:** Mingus's music can be challenging for some listeners, particularly those who are not familiar with jazz or avant-garde music. 2. **Length:** With six extended movements, the album may be daunting for listeners accustomed to shorter, more concise musical compositions. 3. **Intense Themes:** The album's exploration of dark and existential themes may not be suitable for all listeners, particularly those seeking more lighthearted or uplifting music. In conclusion, "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners more than five decades after its release. Mingus's innovative compositions, emotive performances, and profound thematic depth make this album a landmark achievement in the history of jazz music. While its complexity and intense themes may not be to everyone's taste, for those willing to delve into its depths, "The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady" offers a truly transcendent musical experience.
Not a jazz fan
I'm not usually into recorded jazz, but this was great!
A really interesting album - more of an auditory experience than anything. Lots that I didn’t really understand but still enjoyed - my favorite parts were the piano solos and the flamenco guitar sections. I also loved when they played with rhythm and seemed to have two different meters in different sections. I don’t know if I’d listen again, but I thought it was really cool and they were all clearly masters of their crafts and a tight ensemble!
I loved the first side of the album, but wasn't so excited about the second side.
WOW. I probably would need 10+ listens to even approach appreciating this correctly, but even with my 2 I was pretty in love. The instrumentation is great and the piano work is also great!
Really good overall and definitely unique listening experience, but not really my thing to go back and listen to
As a jazz musician myself, it feels a little traitorous to give this such a low rating. But really, Mingus could have done so much more to make this more accessible to a wider audience. The organised chaos of avant-garde jazz is just a little much even for me to handle, and it brings a consistently crazed, dizzying mood to the table that makes it harder to engage with that it should be. Still, the music is dark, energetic, and filled with humour and little winks to jazz contemporaries and predecessors. There's definitely some Davis and Ellington influence with the rapid, wavery trumpet and sax lines. Interesting mutes on those wind instruments during some parts, though it could just as easily be the musicians trying to play as weirdly as possible. The wah-wah, almost kazoo-like sax timbre in Duete Solo Dancers was the clearest example of this. I also liked the wild, interweaving melodic lines on, like, 7 different instruments at once. This happened very often in the track Group Dancers. Cool mood transitions in this track, too. And, obviously, fantastic, dynamic bass playing. I'm not a fan of extended jazz tracks on albums. They're much more forgivable when recorded live, but of course this is a studio album. The 19-minute album closer is, by its own admission, a medley – and in fact the song includes several near-silent intermissions. Break them apart, Charles! 2/5 Key tracks: Duete Solo Dancers (track 2/4), Group Dancers (track 3/4)
Good album; sounds like something from a movie soundtrack. I like how they mix a bit of classical into the jazz.
I usually don't like experimental jazz but this was compelling for some reason that I can't articulate. I think that's the point of experimental jazz, so I have to give it props.