The words "versatile" and "multi-talented" seem to damn vibraphonist/bandleader Roy Ayers with faint praise, but summing up a musician of this quality without going over the moon is a tough task. Known to the hip-hop generation as Icon Man of acid jazz, Roy Ayers' roots extend deep into bop. He started playing with West Coast [...]

Jimmy Smith – Any Number Can Win
Jimmy Smith, hailed as king of the Hammond electric organ, has a plenitude of enthusiasts. He is loved and hated for his incomparable musical ability. He has enjoyed the many fruits of fame here and abroad (his recent trip to Brussels proved the latter). Exciting. . .exciting is the [...]

Well, continuing with the Latin/Afro-Cuban beat theme, here's an album by 'legendary' organist Jackie Davis.  Pretty much a corny-jump-on-the-Latin-explosion record with the new (at the time) Hammond organ.  Gimmick on gimmick.  Fortunately, there's no denying the sound of the electric Hammond, however corny the arrangements, and the rhythm section handles business.  The song "Glow-Worm" has [...]

Jimmy Smith – Organ Grinder Swing
O.K., since you’re reading these notes, you are either already an “Old Aware One,” hip to Jimmy Smith, or a neophyte- come-lately trying to get acquainted; if so, congratulations! 
Since you have gotten this far, you are a member of an exclusive (only those with taste accepted) but international set. You [...]

The Three Sounds – Live At The Lighthouse

This is a great album by the Three Sounds, led by Gene Harris on the piano.  Some blues-funk/jazz as the group was moving from their straight-ahead jazz sounds, to something more funky.  Donald Bailey is a new drummer to the group, but fits in seamlessly.  Don't sleep!
“This [...]