Customer Reviews

These Cats Can Swing

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

listen to this album and try to forget the size of the ensemble. Sounds like a big band, not an expanded combo. Tight rhythm, great horns (maynard, of course, but his support staff is superb). only thing better than this album is seeing the group live (if you get the chance, do it!)

"These Cats Can Swing" is vintage Maynard at his best! For such a small band this group produces a sound that most larger groups dream of. Although all seven tracks are good, you have to check out their interpretation of Duke Ellington's "Caravan". Also two tracks include vocals!!. What makes this CD even better is that, while Maynard demonstrates he can still hit the high notes, he doesn't rely on them to drive the music. GREAT STUFF!!!

After spending the last few albums in combos, it's good to have Maynard back where he belongs -- in front of a red-hot, high energy Big Band. (Well, actually a medium-sized band -- 4 brass, 2 saxes, rhythm -- but it SOUNDS like a big band!). His rendition of CARAVAN is fresh and hot. And although he's not the greatest singer on the block, but his novelty song "He Can't Swing" (criticizing all those jazz-wannabes) should be the used as the international anthem of good jazz players! A thoroughly enjoyable CD.

I grew up with Maynard and to this day recognize his MF Horn albums as some of the best recordings made, period!

With his recent passing I have elected to get acquainted with his later recordings.

In short, this is a fabulous CD and stands proudly along any of the original CSB/Sony MF Horn albums. Great tunes, excellent production and the band does swing!

RIP - my friend, mentor and inspiration.

This is one of the "new" MF recordings that I have purchased recently, not having had any Maynard albums for over 20 years. It's a great Big Band style, different from the Chameleon/MF Horn recordings we used to wear out in high school. I know this recording is already over 10 yrs. old now, but I'm very pleased to hear the great music that Maynard is still putting out. Along with Brass Attitude, this is a great CD to play for my 11 year old son, a 3rd year trumpet/cornet player.This is how it's done. Now if I can only get MF Horn 2 and 4&5 (Live at Jimmy's)on CD I'll be really happy. Yes, it swings!

I very rarely give anything a 5 star rating. This however was such a wonderful supprize that I just couldn't resist. His "small" band sounds huge, and really drives the music. Listing the highlights would take up too much space, however you MUST check out his version of Duke Ellington's "Caravan". Maynard, thanks for this collection. It really reminded me of why I love Big Band/Swing music.

This album has it all -- campy singing tunes by MF, the classic Caravan, an MF indian tune, Matt Wallace singing, and FINE original by Tom Garling.... all of the things that MF fans have grown to love -- all on one CD. It's great -- you must have it in your library if you don't have it already. I mean, Maynard's picture on the cover is reason enough! :)