Primal Scream (Maynard Ferguson album)


Primal Scream is the eighth jazz album by Canadian trumpeter Maynard Ferguson on Columbia Records.
Primal Scream marks the beginning of the second phase of Ferguson's career with Columbia, where his live big band sound is set aside in favor of lavish studio productions. The album credits reveal an all-star ensemble made up of New York's finest musicians, along with backing vocalists and strings were recruited for this release.
While most of the tracks would remain studio creations only, his rendition of "Pagliacci" would become a concert feature for his touring band, and was heard by millions when he performed it as part of the closing ceremonies of the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal.

Reviews

Maynard's late-'70s recordings were generally not well received by jazz purists, but AllMusic's Jim Newsom described Primal Scream by saying "Ferguson's trademark trumpet playing is featured in all its screaming glory..."

Reissues

In 2004, Primal Scream was reissued by Wounded Bird Records.

Track listing

All tracks arranged and conducted by Jay Chattaway

Personnel

All credits adapted from album cover.

Musicians