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[acf_views view-id=”117″ name=”Run, Color, Discs”]
Description:
It is a remarkable testament to Jimmy Smith’s immense creativity that he was able to record two soul jazz classics, “Midnight Special” and “Back at the Chicken Shack,” in a single day at Van Gelder Studio on April 25, 1960. Smith was accompanied by Stanley Turrentine on tenor saxophone, Kenny Burrell on guitar, and Donald Bailey on drums. This incredible feat highlights Smith’s volcanic talent and innovation on the Hammond B3 organ. Before delving into the world of the organ, Jimmy Smith was a self-taught pianist. However, in 1954, he made the decision to shift his focus and mastery to the organ. He rented a warehouse in Philadelphia and spent a year honing his skills and developing a revolutionary style that caught the attention of Alfred Lion, the boss at Blue Note Records. Lion aptly dubbed him “The Incredible Jimmy Smith” and recorded him extensively from 1956 to 1963. “Midnight Special” kicks off with the soulful title track, showcasing a laid-back pace that allows ample room for Smith, Turrentine, and Burrell to excel. The album also includes standout tracks like the up-tempo burner “Jumpin’ the Blues” and a deeply emotive rendition of the standard “Why Was I Born?” This edition of “Midnight Special” is a true collector’s item. It is presented in stereo and is an all-analog recording, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original master tapes. Furthermore, it is pressed on high-quality 180g vinyl at Optimal. It is a must-have for any fan of Jimmy Smith’s groundbreaking work in the soul jazz genre. (Note: The product dimensions, weight, ASIN, and country of origin have been excluded from this summary in accordance with the given instructions. Further information about the artist can be added in another paragraph if available.)
