Somehow I managed to be a jazz fan for over 30 years and yet never heard this album until last week. All I can say is- wow!Just the treat of hearing Mingus and Roach- perhaps the finest rhythm section players of the post-war era- playing together is enough of a treat. Add the rare experience of hearing Duke Ellington (whom Mingus worshipped) playing in a trio, and you've got something really special. Put all three of them together and an incredible experience. Mingus and Roach's powerful playing seesm to be almost taunting the Duke, pushing him to play beter. And he responds with stunning, firey playing.If you're a jazz fan and you haven't heard this album, buy it now. Or buy two, in case you lose one. It's right up there with "Kind of Blue", "A Love Supreme" and "Mingus Ah Um" as one of the greatest jazz albums ever made.