Is Color Him Wild a good place to start with Maynard Ferguson?

Yes, Color Him Wild is recommended as a starting point for new Maynard Ferguson listeners. Vibrant big band arrangements blend with intricate solos, showcasing Maynard Ferguson's trademark high-energy brass performances. Released in 1965, Color Him Wild marked a significant chapter in Maynard Ferguson's career as he was transitioning into the mainstream jazz scene after gaining recognition for his innovative trumpet playing. This album followed his successful work in the late 1950s and early 1960s, positioning him as a leading figure in the big band and jazz fusion movements.

Who is Color Him Wild for?

Color Him Wild works well if you're into playful tunes for social gatherings, short bursts of bright energy and easygoing melodies for relaxation.

How many songs are on Color Him Wild?

Color Him Wild has 9 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Color Him Wild

Maynard Ferguson · 1965

39 min · 9 tracks · jazz

Vibrant big band arrangements blend with intricate solos, showcasing Maynard Ferguson's trademark high-energy brass performances.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Airegin Start here — This track features an exhilarating interplay between brass and rhythm sections, exemplifying Ferguson's ability to push tempo while maintaining melodic clarity.
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Green Dolphin Street — The lush harmonies and intricate trumpet lines highlight Ferguson's virtuosic technique, making this rendition a standout interpretation of a classic standard.
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Come Rain or Come Shine — Ferguson’s powerful phrasing and emotional delivery transform this ballad into a showcase of expressive dynamics and rich tonal quality.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful tunes for social gatherings
short bursts of bright energy
easygoing melodies for relaxation
lively rhythms that inspire movement

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive albums
seek intense emotional depth

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Solid entry in Ferguson's catalog that doesn't fit other primary roles.
Career context: Released in 1965, Color Him Wild marked a significant chapter in Maynard Ferguson's career as he was transitioning into the mainstream jazz scene after gaining recognition for his innovative trumpet playing. This album followed his successful work in the late 1950s and early 1960s, positioning him as a leading figure in the big band and jazz fusion movements.
Stylistic neighbors: Buddy Rich· Chuck Mangione· Doc Severinsen