Carnival (Maynard Ferguson album)


Carnival is the 11th album by Canadian jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson on Columbia Records. After the success of Conquistador, this album follows in a similar structure. Another big theme song, a couple of originals, a blast from the past, and a cover of "Birdland", which was well received.

Background and production

In preparing for this album, Maynard proved once again just how keenly aware he was of what was going on in the world of music, but he was having trouble converting these sensibilities into chart success. Having taken over the reins as producer, he hedged his bets by including a couple of songs from his past, re-recording the Slide Hampton arrangement of "Stella by Starlight", and a new arrangement of "Over the Rainbow".

Critical reception

AllMusic's Scott Yanow wrote "Maynard Ferguson's version of "Birdland" from this LP was a bit of a hit and he fares fairly well on "Stella by Starlight" and "Over the Rainbow," but overall this typically commercial Columbia album is of lesser interest."

Reissues

In 2003, Carnival was reissued by Wounded Bird Records.

Track listing

  • Maynard Ferguson: Trumpet solos on all tracks except "Baker Street"

Personnel

The MF Band

Additional musicians

Vocals

Production

Management