Attilio Zanchi Mingus Portrait

Charles Mingus's music is, and will remain, in the hearts and ears of all Jazz lovers, serving to inspire generations of musicians. Mingus, besides being a magnificent double bassist, was also a prolific composer, arranger, pianist, and band leader of several historic ensembles. His groups, ranging from trios to big bands, have traversed and influenced various stylistic periods from the 1950s to the 1970s. Undoubtedly, Mingus, alongside Duke Ellington, was one of the most important composers of the 20th century; in his music, one can hear the roots of Blues, echoes of Gospel, Swing, Bebop, Soul Jazz, and even Free and avant-garde music. It is for this reason that his music can almost be considered an encyclopedic portrait of Jazz history and can still be played today without appearing dated, instead providing new insights and inspiration. From these considerations arises my desire to reinterpret Mingus's repertoire, influenced by our individual experiences as musicians. In this recording, in addition to Mingus's compositions, two original compositions inspired by or closely related to Mingus's musical style are performed. The group originates from the musical collaboration of over thirty years between myself, pianist Massimo Colombo, and saxophonist Tino Tracanna, and is complemented by saxophonist Gianni Azzali, drummer Tommy Bradascio, and two new young talents of Italian Jazz: trombonist Andrea Andreoli and trumpeter Daniele Nocella. One day, when he was already very ill, Charles Mingus said to his wife Sue: "You know, I've already had a body. Next time I want to be a star. I want to shine all night." We do not know if his wish was granted, but certainly his music continues to shine and illuminate the world like a star. Attilio Zanchi

All tracks composed by Charles Mingus unless otherwise stated.