| Primal Scream | |
| Type: | studio |
| Artist: | Maynard Ferguson |
| Cover: | MF_Primal_Scream.jpg |
| Recorded: | August–October 1975 |
| Studio: | Media Sound |
| Label: | Columbia |
| Producer: | Bob James |
| Prev Title: | Chameleon |
| Prev Year: | 1975 |
| Next Title: | Conquistador |
| Next Year: | 1977 |
Primal Scream is the eighth jazz album by Canadian trumpeter Maynard Ferguson on Columbia Records.[1] 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.[1]
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.[2]
Maynard's late-70s recordings were generally not well received by jazz purists,[3] but AllMusic's Jim Newsom described Primal Scream by saying "Ferguson's trademark trumpet playing is featured in all its screaming glory..."
In 2004 Primal Scream was reissued by Wounded Bird Records.[4]
All tracks arranged and conducted by Jay Chattaway
All credits adapted from album cover.[1]