Newport Suite
Maynard Ferguson · 1960
40 min · 7 tracks · jazz
An exhilarating blend of big band jazz and hard bop, pulsating with vibrant energy and intricate solos.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Jazz Bary Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Newport — The title track serves as an ambitious centerpiece, featuring complex rhythms and harmonies that highlight Ferguson's powerful trumpet work and the band's cohesive sound.
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Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child — This track delivers a poignant interpretation, blending soulful melodies with rich brass arrangements that evoke deep emotion, showcasing Ferguson's sensitivity as a musician.
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Ol' Man River — Ferguson's rendition transforms this classic tune into a vibrant showcase of improvisation and ensemble interplay, illustrating the group’s ability to breathe new life into standard repertoire.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalInnovative arrangements and vibrant energy define this influential jazz album.
What we noticed
- The album features a continuous flow of energetic big band arrangements, with each track seamlessly transitioning into the next.
- Intricate solos are prominent throughout, with multiple instruments taking turns in the spotlight rather than relying on a single lead.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- dynamic journey with emotional peaks
- vibrant brass arrangements throughout
- soulful improvisation for engagement
- wave-like pacing invites deep listening
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, short tracks
- seek instant gratification in music
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Innovative arrangements that solidified Ferguson's reputation in jazz.
- Career context
- By the time Maynard Ferguson released Newport Suite in 1960, he had already established himself as a prominent figure in jazz, following his success with the 1956 album 'Maynard Ferguson's Jazz Party'. This album marked an important step in his career, showcasing not only his virtuosic trumpet playing but also his ability to lead large ensembles into more adventurous territory.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Buddy Rich· Chuck Mangione· Doc Severinsen
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child
The arrangement shifts from somber tones to an uplifting climax that integrates various instruments in a rich tapestry of sound.
This dynamic contrast not only enhances emotional depth but also demonstrates Ferguson's skill in orchestrating complex musical narratives.
Tracklist
- 1 The Jazz Bary Start here 4:25
- 2 Foxy 5:10
- 3 Newport 9:32
- 4 Got the Spirit 3:50
- 5 Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child 2:54
- 6 Ol' Man River 6:58
- 7 Three More Foxes 8:00
What to play next
Maynard '61
1961
Continues the energetic big band sound with fresh arrangements and vibrant performances.
Let's Face the Music and Dance
1960
Sets the stage with a lively big band feel that leads into Newport Suite's energy.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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