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The trumpeter and bandleader Maynard Ferguson, who has died aged 78 of kidney and liver failure, frightened every brass player on the planet with his exceptional power, endurance and lip-splitting high-note command. He also recorded 60 albums during a career that lasted for more than 60 years and took in movies, television, and a series of awards. 

In 1956 Maynard Ferguson had the opportunity to put together a "dream band." Fortunately (in addition to a tour), the orchestra cut a pair of albums, most of which is included on this single CD. With arrangements from Al Cohn, Bob Brookmeyer, Jimmy Giuffre, Ernie Wilkins, Bill Holman, Marty Paich, Willie Maiden, Johnny Mandel, and Herb Geller, it is not too surprising that these charts sound both modern and quite exciting. In addition to Ferguson's high-note trumpet work, the main soloists are trombonist Jimmy Cleveland, altoist Herb Geller, and Al Cohn on tenor. Overall, this music serves a particularly strong start to Maynard Ferguson's career as a major bandleader.
 
Tracks 1-3 recorded September 7, 1956 at RCA Studio 2, New York City.
Tracks 4-9 recorded September 11, 1956 at Webster Hall, New York City.
Tracks 10-12 recorded December 24, 1956 at RCA Studio 2, New York City.
Tracks 13-18 recorded September 25,1956 at RCA Studio 2, New York City.