Pros: full of classic tracks
Cons: may seem "out there" at first listen

This album is definitely a must-have for anyone who appreciates jazz. Mingus is one of those cats who took creativity to a new level. He wasn't afraid of expanding, freeing himself, and erupting in musical expression like no one had ever heard before.

This album is groundbreaking, and Mingus was one of the pioneers of his time. To understand how jazz as gotten to where it is today this album should really be in your collection.

Many of the pieces have become Real Book standards. The highlight tracks of this album are:
Track 2 - Goodbye Pork Pie Hat
Track 3 - Boogie Stop Shuffle
and Track 9 - Jelly Roll

And, with the special re-release edition, dig the fat liner notes full of extremely interesting and inspiring info, as well as the bonus tracks at the end.