This pair of 1960 studio sessions represents some of Charles Mingus' best arrangements. Leading the smaller of two groups, he interpolates 'Exactly Like You' into a driving version of 'Take the 'A' Train' and adds a soulful blues, 'Prayer For Passive Resistance,' both of which feature great solos by tenor saxophonists Booker Ervin, Yusef Lateef, and Joe Farrell. A much larger ensemble is utilized on three tracks, including the advanced bop 'Mingus Fingus No. 2' and 'Bemoanable Lady,' which features a rather strangely conservative alto sax solo by Eric Dolphy. Less successful are Lorraine Curson's vocals on the dissonant 'Eclipse' and pulsating 'Weird Nightmare.' (Allmusic)