In July of 1960, in protest against what they considered the failings of the jazz scene and the accelerating commercialization of the annual Newport Jazz Festival, Charles Mingus and Max Roach staged their own “rebel” festival at nearby Cliff Walk Manner, RI. The rebels set up their own tents for sleeping, built their own stage, handled advertising, promotion, ticket taking and MC duties. By all accounts the concert was wholly inspired and a peaceful affair. Meanwhile, what was supposed to be an alternative festival turned out to be the only one in town. Unable to disperse an intoxicated mob of young people seeking access to the sold-out show at Freebody Park, the actual Newport Jazz Festival ended abruptly in a full scale riot. Despite the fact that these sessions were held in the studio, the music reflects the high-spirited freedom of the best jazz played at the original setting with nearly all of it improvised during the recording. Of particular note is the Booker Little track “Cliff Walk,” which features both Max Roach and Jo Jones, two of the greatest jazz drummers ever, trading off. The LP includes extraordinary liner notes written by Hentoff himself, giving a context and insight that adds to the experience of hearing these magnificent performances. This recording is remastered by legendary mastering engineer, Bernie Grundman.
Release date:
March 15, 2024
Label:
Install our app to receive notifications when new upcoming releases are added.

Recommended equipment and accessories
-
Pro-Ject Phono Box DC Pre-Amp
Compact, high-performance phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges, delivering a clean, detailed signal with minimal noise.
-
Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
-
HumminGuru: Ultrasonic Vinyl Record Cleaner
Advanced ultrasonic technology with customizable cleaning cycles and a large tank capacity to thoroughly remove dust, dirt, and contaminants
-
Turntables - Top Picks
A selection of reliable record players you can buy today, for every budget
-
Ortofon 2M Blue Premounted
Mounted on the SH-4 Black Headshell, this setup delivers exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and accurate sound reproduction.
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
-
Alex G Headlights
Rca Records
July 18, 2025 -
Born of Osiris Through Shadows (Onyx Marble)
Sumerian Records
July 11, 2025 -
Swell Season Forward
Masterkey Sounds
July 11, 2025 -
Chris Stapleton Traveller (Coke Bottle Clear; Amazon Exclusive) [2xLP]
Mercury Nashville
August 22, 2025 -
GIVĒON BELOVED (Amazon exclusive, Translucent tan)
Epic Records
July 11, 2025 -
Slaughter To Prevail Grizzly (Bone/Black-Burgundy Splatter)
Sumerian Records
July 18, 2025 -
Bush I Beat Loneliness [2xLP]
Earmusic
July 18, 2025 -
L.A. Guns Leopard Skin
Cleopatra Records
August 1, 2025 -
Saint Etienne International
Heavenly
September 5, 2025 -
GWAR THe Return Of Gor Gor (Semi-Transparent Purple)
Pit Records
July 25, 2025 -
Dougie Poole At Tubby's
Wharf Cat Records
July 18, 2025 -
The Lemonheads Love Chant
Fire Records
October 24, 2025 -
The Hives The Hives Forever Forever The Hives (Gold)
Play It Again Sam
August 29, 2025 -
Jade Bird Who Wants to Talk About Love
Glassnote Music
July 18, 2025