Jazz composers workshop / Charles Mingus, bass, John La Porta, clar., alto sax. ; Teo Macero, ten. sax., bar. sax. ; MalWaldron, piano... [et al.]

"The complex music on this album finds bassist Charles Mingus looking toward contemporary classical music in some of the rather cool-toned arrangements. It was not until later in 1955 that he found the right combination of influences in which to express himself best but these slightly earlier performances have their moments. Four of the selections feature tenor-saxophonist Teo Macero, pianist Wally Cirillo, drummer Kenny Clarke and Mingus in a quartet while the other five tracks showcase a sextet with Macero, George Barrow on tenor and baritone and clarinetistaltoist John La Porta. The 2000 reissue boasts improved sound and a bonus track: an alternate take of "Body and Soul"." (Scott Yanow, Allmusic)