Subtitled "The Last Mingus Band," drummer Dannie Richmond had a rare opportunity to lead a group for this album. He heads what was the final Charles Mingus combo, a quintet with tenor-saxophonist Ricky Ford, trumpeter Jack Walrath, pianist Bob Neloms and bassist Cameron Brown (the latter in Mingus' place). Together they perform spirited versions of five Charles Mingus' compositions along with Sy Johnson's "Wee." Everyone is in fine form and, although one misses Mingus, the music has its exciting moments. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
