LONNIE SMITH

Jungle Soul

2006-07-24

As the first track starts, “Trouble Man”, all that came to mind was SNL’s The Ladies’ Man. Smith’s Hammond B3 Organ is very reminiscent to that likes of the comedy sketch’s opening tune. Smith’s organ are his vocals (with the exception of the distant humming and dada’s and dodo’s in the background); as the B3 takes over for the lack of vocals, Lonnie Smith’s style is superb. With a couple of guitar solos for good measure, the back and forth of the B3 organ and guitar does enough to validate a wonderful jazz album that will be enjoyed at any dinner or cocktail party or even summer afternoon cookout. Track 4, “Willow Weep For Me” is a classic example of the beautiful jazz styles of Smith. Track 8, “Bemsha Swing” is another gorgeous song that is an infusion of swing and jazz genres. Track 9, “Zimbabwe” and track 10, “Jungle Wisdom” both have a traditional feel to them, only with a jazz kick to it. Two more great songs for indie radio. Lane Zoerhof

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 09/2008

    Ted Nash & Still Evolved
    – In The Loop

  • reviewed 11/2016

    Shirley Horn
    Live At The 4 Queens

  • reviewed 01/2006

    MATTHEW SHIPP
    One

  • reviewed 03/2017

    Stockton Helbing
    Swimming In Place

  • reviewed 02/2007

    PAUL MOTIAN BAND
    Garden of Eden

  • reviewed 06/2005

    John Scofield
    That's What I Say: John Scofield Plays the Music of Ray Charles

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.