Maynard Ferguson: Oleo

Some people detest Maynard Ferguson. These are mostly dog-owners whose canines cower whenever Maynard assaults the ozone layer with his stratospheric trumpet. For the rest of us, it's impossible not to stand and salute this flag-waver recorded live at Birdland. Slide Hampton's arrangement is dynamite, and the band's performance is explosive. Dunlop's drums overly dominate the mix, but that's an audio not a musical blemish, which actually increases excitement. As a precaution, have the nurse check your pulse after you listen to this. And please DO NOT download Maynard's "Oleo" to your pooch's iPod. Doggie ears are just too sensitive.