Charles Mingus: Los Mariachis

Inspired by street musicians in Tijuana, Los Mariachis employs a suite-like structure that simulates a walking tour; around every corner, the listener encounters another style, rhythm, or theme. The writing is conceptual, and the contrasts are sharp: for every exuberant and celebratory melody, there is a pensive and mournful counterpart. As the piece evolves, the soloistsShaw, Knepper, Porter, then Trigliadraw from a growing memory bank of impressions and moods. Their nuanced improvisations aim to integrate the breezy bop and loping blues, buoyant calypso and poignant ballad; but the overall effect is stilted in comparison with Mingus subtler multipart miniatures, like Open Letter To Duke.