Nial Ferguson

An all-star cast assists Maynard Ferguson in this disco-tinged big-band outing. Ferguson's trademark trumpet playing is featured in all its screaming glory, and Mark Colby contributes a couple of high-energy sax solos. "Primal Scream" and "Invitation" sound as though they were lifted right off the mid-'70s disco dancefloor, complete with T.S.O.P.-type strings and pulsing rhythms. "Pagliacci," too, has the disco beat pounding underneath a Jay Chattaway adaptation of an operatic melody, with Bobby Militello featured on an energetic, overblown flute solo. Chick Corea's "The Cheshire Cat Walk" sounds like latter-day Return to Forever, as Corea's synth trades licks with Ferguson's horn over a familiar RTF rhythmic/chordal bassline sequence. The final cut, Eric Gale's "Swamp," stands out because of its reggae beat.

At 68, Maynard Ferguson's thrill-filled hornucopia is still spilling over with joyous power. His stratospheric sound hasn't decreased one decibel, and he still plugs in those incredibly rich, round notes where they count most. His current mod squad swings hard and tight throughout, especially on "Caravan." The band's working over of "Sugar" has an intensity beyond Stanley Turrentine's original. The leader's East Indian affinity is evident on "Sweet Baba Suite;" the traditional raga base is punctuated by straightahead solos, Chip McNeill's tenor in particular. Matt Wallace turns in fine tenor and alto work throughout, while trombonist Tom Garling has several fine segments. Pianist Ron Oswanski oozes romance on "I'll Be Around" and drummer Jason Harnell boots the boys through a soul-swinging blues, "It's the Gospel Truth."