CD Review
Maynard Ferguson -
M.F. Horn 4 & 5 - Live At Jimmy’s
Finally!! The Late Maynard Ferguson’s legendary live album originally released in 1974 has made its way to compact disc thanks to Wounded Bird records. The story of this album has grown in lore over the years. Record executives at Columbia were in town with virtually every big jazz name because there was this little event called the Newport Jazz Festival happening at the same time. These execs caught Maynard’s act at Jimmy’s (located on 52nd Street in downtown New York City). They collectively decided it would be a good idea to record Maynard and his very hot band. The problem was, the band was on a very tight schedule. The solution? Record the band during lunch hour before they left town. What you hear is Maynard and his band playing a lunchtime concert for Columbia Record executives and their families. What you hear is Maynard and his band recording for prosperities sake, one fine collection of charts for the jazz listeners AND the non-jazz world to hear. After all, this double record actually climbed all the way to #40 on the Billboard charts.
The album kicks off with "Teonava", a Pete Jackson original. This is just what you expect, an “in your face” opener that lets the listener know that Maynard and the boys mean business. Next is Maynard’s treatment of "MacArthur Park". In my opinion, the finest cover version of this tune. The baritone sax solo provided by Bruce Johnstone is great. Does anybody remember the group New York Mary? I never get tired of listening to the calypso feel he and the rhythm section provide which serves as a nice contrasting break from the original tune. This version is far superior to the one found on Maynard Ferguson MF Horn.
Next comes "Left Bank Express", another Pete Jackson tune that delivers a great syncopation by the lower brass section that allows the saxes to slide over top like an Olympic ice skater towards the Gold Medal (no doubt Canadian). OK, I’m waxing poetic when I don’t need to. The flute solo, again provided by Bruce Johnstone, is one that should be examined not for its technical prowess, but for its feel, development and overall contribution to the chart.
The classic standard, "I'm Getting' Sentimental Over You" showcases the band’s ability to express itself in a "oneness" that any subsequent big band would be proud of. The layers of sound are not to be lost as Maynard flexes his muscles to lead the ensemble to heights seldom reached since. I do believe Stan Kenton would be proud.
"Two For Otis" picks the tempo up and allows the sax section to shine. First comes the head, and then Ferninand Pavel picks up with a blistering solo. Pavel turns it over to Baritone Sax hero Bruce Johnstone who sounds like he was determined not to be outdone. Next comes a nice section where the two trade licks for awhile. You determine the winner. If you can figure it out, let me know.
"Stay Loose With Bruce" is a swing chart that provides a nice contrast to the previous track's straightforward approach. Again, the baritone sax work is stuff of legend. Maynard knew how to showcase his best talent and had no problem doing so. I have always admired Mr. Johnstone's ability to play with limited accompaniment. This is on display here as he solos over top only the bass player. Not an easy feat.
The last three full charts are "Nice 'N Juicy", "The Fox Hunt", and Slide Hampton’s "Got The Spirit", followed by a tag of "Blue Birdland". I’ll let you listen for yourself to these last four tracks. If I haven’t convinced you to buy this CD yet, I never will.
Oh yeah, I forgot! Maynard's playing is...well...Maynard's playing. He was simply unbelievable. I am again reminded as to why millions loved him. I saw Maynard play a couple of times in person and I was always impressed with how much fun he seemed to have on stage (a huge contrast from Buddy Rich). I believe I can actually hear Maynard smiling as this thing spins in my CD player. R.I.P., Maynard. With music like this still being played, your efforts and your legend will never die.
02.27.07