Don't let Gerald Veasley's smooth-jazz reputation mislead you. While he's a celebrated smooth-jazz exponent, Veasley's impressive pedigree includes a multi-year tenure with the late Joe Zawinul and work backing jazz giants like McCoy Tyner. A certified virtuoso on the six-string electric bass, Veasley now leads a project that might surprise you: a bold and masterful "reimagining" of the legendary Charles Mingus.
The Electric Mingus Project delivers an ambitious acoustic-electric fusion that stands as an extraordinary live tribute. Veasley’s creative arrangements breathe new, vibrant life into Mingus’s timeless compositions, executed with top-tier performances from an all-star lineup.
Chris Farr soars on saxophones and EWI, John Swana brings vibrant textures on trumpet and EVI, Tony Miceli illuminates with his masterful vibraphone, and Harry “Butch” Reed anchors the ensemble with dynamic, propulsive drumming. The band's captivating sets also feature provocative original tunes, including the rhythmically shifting “Blues for Mingus” and the funk-infused “Eighteen Sixty-Three.”
Adding another compelling layer to their live performance, Veasley masterfully weaves Mingus's own words into the fabric of the music. Dramatic readings by Kevin Wayns on tracks like “Interlude-Let My Children Hear Music” (segued into a rambunctious “Haitian Fight Song”) and “Interlude-Sounds” (leading into a haunting “Canon”) offer profound, immersive insights for the audience. The band even pays homage to Miles Davis with a clever reference to “All Blues” within a showcasing of Tony Miceli on “Better Get Hit in Your Soul.” Every performance culminates with a thunderous rendition of “Boogie Stop Shuffle,” propelled by Farr’s powerful tenor saxophone work, ensuring your audience leaves no doubt that Veasley and his ensemble have paid their respects to Mingus while forging an exciting, new path forward.
The Electric Mingus Project is more than just a tribute; it’s a dynamic, high-caliber live experience perfect for jazz festivals seeking innovative programming and world-class musicianship. Bring this unique and powerful act to your stage and offer your audience an unforgettable journey through the reimagined world of Charles Mingus.
