Reissued January 13, 2023
Bethlehem
1xLP
While not often cropping up in discussions of favorite or most well known Mingus albums, East Coasting, recorded in 1957, features the bassist at his most subdued, offering a potential entry point for those looking to dig into his work. Lacking the more ferocious energy that would characterize his work in the coming years –Mingus Ah Um was only two years away– East Coasting has a soft and melodic tone, rounded out by a young Bill Evans on the piano, providing his usual delicateness. The highlight of the recording is the ten minute West Coast Ghost, confident and melancholy, it nonetheless harbors a sinister energy underneath, something waiting to be unleashed. With five original compositions, this is an album for both seasoned Mingus heads and those who may have been looking for a softer landing into his catalog.