What does Maynard Ferguson sound like?

A vibrant blend of brass and rhythm reflecting the electric energy of early '70s jazz fusion. Rooted in jazz fusion and hard bop. Start with "Move Over".

Is Maynard Ferguson a good place to start with Maynard Ferguson?

Yes, Maynard Ferguson is recommended as a starting point for new Maynard Ferguson listeners. A vibrant blend of brass and rhythm reflecting the electric energy of early '70s jazz fusion. In 1971, Maynard Ferguson was transitioning from a successful big band leader to exploring jazz fusion with this self-titled album. This release came shortly after his acclaimed work with the Big Bop Nouveau band, showcasing his versatility in adapting to contemporary trends while maintaining his hard-bop roots.

Who is Maynard Ferguson for?

Maynard Ferguson works well if you're into short, engaging listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and vibrant and uplifting melodies.

How many songs are on Maynard Ferguson?

Maynard Ferguson has 9 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Maynard Ferguson

Maynard Ferguson · 1971

38 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of brass and rhythm reflecting the electric energy of early '70s jazz fusion.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Move Over Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
→
Fire and Rain — This cover features intricate brass arrangements that transform James Taylor's poignant ballad into an exhilarating jazz piece, showcasing Ferguson's dynamic approach.
→
Aquarius — Ferguson's version of this song highlights his virtuosic trumpet playing and incorporates complex rhythms, making it a standout example of jazz fusion.
→
Bridge Over Troubled Water — The arrangement elevates Simon & Garfunkel's classic with powerful brass sections and emotional delivery, reflecting Ferguson's ability to reinterpret well-known melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong brass arrangements and creative interpretations of popular songs, reflecting early jazz fusion.

What we noticed

The album features a strong emphasis on brass instrumentation, with trumpet solos frequently taking the lead over rhythmic backing.
Each track is a reinterpretation of a popular song, often extending beyond the original's structure with improvisational sections.
The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a high energy while others slow down for more reflective moments.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short, engaging listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
vibrant and uplifting melodies
contemplative late-night vibes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Ferguson's shift to jazz fusion, gaining wider recognition.
Career context: In 1971, Maynard Ferguson was transitioning from a successful big band leader to exploring jazz fusion with this self-titled album. This release came shortly after his acclaimed work with the Big Bop Nouveau band, showcasing his versatility in adapting to contemporary trends while maintaining his hard-bop roots.
Stylistic neighbors: Buddy Rich· Chuck Mangione· Doc Severinsen