Charles Mingus: Live in Belgium '64 is an extraordinary music documentary featuring one of the greatest jazz composers and bassists of all time, Charles Mingus. The film is directed by Gust de Coster and produced by the Belgian broadcasting company BRT. The movie captures a stunning live performance of the Charles Mingus Quintet at the Salle Pleyel in Brussels in April 1964. The band features Mingus on bass, Eric Dolphy on alto sax and bass clarinet, Clifford Jordan on tenor sax, Johnny Coles on trumpet, and Dannie Richmond on drums.
The concert begins with a powerful rendition of "So Long Eric," a tribute to Eric Dolphy, who would pass away later that year. The song is a showcase of Mingus's emotional depth and technical prowess on the bass, as well as Dolphy's unique sound and improvisational skills on the sax and bass clarinet.
Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to Mingus's compositions, including "Sophisticated Lady," "Orange Was the Color of Her Dress," and "Take the A Train." Each piece is a masterclass in musicianship, with the quintet's collective improvisation creating an electric energy that is palpable on screen.
One of the highlights of the film is the performance of "Fables of Faubus," a political satire that critiques Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus's opposition to desegregation. Mingus's playful and innovative arrangement, which includes a spoken-word introduction from Richmond and a raucous call-and-response segment, adds depth and dimension to the already powerful song.
Throughout the performance, Mingus is in his element, exuding confidence and authority as he leads the band through complex and demanding pieces. He is a dynamic performer, leaping and grooving to the music as he demonstrates his technique and skill on the bass.
Dolphy is equally mesmerizing, his music reflecting his passion and intensity as he switches effortlessly between alto sax and bass clarinet. His sound is rich and full, with each note soaring and shimmering through the hall.
The other members of the quintet are no less talented, each contributing their unique voice to the performance. Jordan's tenor sax solos are breathtaking, and Coles's trumpet playing is fluid and melodic. Richmond's drumming is inventive and energetic, driving the rhythms forward with a relentless force.
The film also features interviews with Mingus and his band members, providing insight into their creative process and the meaning behind their music. Mingus talks about his influences and the challenges he faced as a black artist in a predominantly white industry, while Dolphy shares his own experience as a black musician in America.
Overall, Charles Mingus: Live in Belgium '64 is a must-see movie for jazz fans and music lovers alike. The concert is an unforgettable experience, showcasing the artistry and skill of one of the most talented jazz ensembles of all time. Mingus and his bandmates are at their best in this film, creating a powerful and emotional performance that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who sees it.
Charles Mingus: Live in Belgium '64 is a 1964 music movie with a runtime of 2 hours.
