Search - Jimmy Smith :: Definitive Jimmy Smith

Since he emerged in the mid-1950s, organist Jimmy Smith has represented a unique combination of the soulful and the virtuosic, combining volcanic swing and sturdy back beats with lead lines that burble and burn at blazing speed. Smith spent the early years of his career recording with small groups for Blue Note, and they're well represented here, beginning with his original trio digging into Dizzy Gillespie's "The Champ," from 1956. "The Sermon" is a legendary 20-minute jam from 1958 that has Smith tapping into gospel roots (and quoting the pop song "Teach Me Tonight") with hard-boppers like Art Blakey and Lee Morgan, while "Midnight Special" is by the supergroup of soul jazz, a 1960 summit meeting of Smith, tenor saxophonist Stanley Turrentine, guitarist Kenny Burrell, and drummer Donald Bailey. Smith moved to Verve in 1962 where his energetic organ matched up perfectly with big band charts by arranger Oliver Nelson. It's apparent in "Walk on the Wild Side," an immediate crossover hit. "Got My Mojo Workin'" has Smith singing as well as playing organ, while the concluding "Night Train" has him collaborating with guitar great Wes Montgomery. This is a terrific introduction to Smith's unique fusion of swing, bop, funk, and soul. --Stuart Broomer