Mike Janisch Quintet plays tribute to Charles Mingus
The quintet’s final piece was dedicated to fellow bass-player, and clear influence, Charles Mingus. It was a brilliant choice for the closing number, featuring much of the theatrical musicality that characterised Mingus’ own performances and many of his compositions. The five members of the group often took on the scale and stature of the Mingus big band, and Janisch strong rhythmic playing and Booth’s tart sax work were then mellowed by the gentler timbres of Palmer’s trumpet and Hart’s vibes. This was another number that simmered, then rose slowly but inevitably to the boil. Penn is in there stirring, pushing the other ingredients around as the emotional intensity rises through the round robin of solos. Sitting here in the hall you can gaze at the whole band on the stage as the music washes over you, then you can turn to one of the large screens to see a close-up of individual players, and then your focus of attention moves to the individual player. This is music strong in its whole and in its parts. The thunderous climax that had the audience cheering and clapping. A splendid end to a great set.
This show coincided with the launch of their new CD. I haven’t heard it yet, but if it reflects anything of tonight’s performance it will be a joy to hear.
Tim Wall
