Search - Ethel Smith :: First Lady of the Hammond Organ: Plays Tico Tico

Nostalgia for Hammond enthusiasts

Ingvar Svardh | Sweden | 12/22/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This collection is a fine example of the very first Hammond Organ recordings, back at the 40'ies or so. The style on many of the tracks is the fundamental melody/chords/pedal, but Ethel also is very good at the latino american tunes, which she performs with excellent skill and feeling. The sound quality is acceptable for these early recordings and better than on the vinyl LP. This double CD is higly recommended for those who want to hear Hammond music from the beginning. Ethel Smith, may You forever stay in our Hammond memories."

A FITTING TRIBUTE TO A REAL LADY

R. Olsavicky | Butler, Pa. USA | 01/15/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This anthology from the Decca vaults shows the many sides of a true Popular organ VIRTUOSO. Her Latin American pieces are well represented as well as Standards, Blues, Hits, Swing and Novelty. Her impeccable technique served her great expressive and even comic skills. I saw her live and she was a ball of fire as these selections show. She was THE FIRST LADY OF THE HAMMOND ORGAN!!! Don't miss this trip down a wonderful Memory Lane!"

Hammond nut

Barry J. Blanchard | Baton Rouge, LA | 04/12/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Overall a very good CD for passionate old Hammond music lovers. Some songs weren't arranged well, but most were. Her playing is very similar to that of Lenny Dee, but still has a taste of it's own. It's a shame she's no longer with us, I would love to have watched her play--the fingerwork is amazing."