Jimmy Smith at the Organ (1957 albums)

Jimmy Smith at the Organ, Vols. 1 & 2 are a pair of separate but related albums by American jazz organist Jimmy Smith, recorded over February 12–13, 1957 and released on Blue Note in 1957 and 1958 respectively.

Reception Billboard magazine gave Volume 1 three-out-of-four stars, stating that "Smith reiterates his ability to make the organ a functional, jazz instrument", and praising Smith's, Donaldson's, and Burrell's solos.

AllMusic jazz critic Scott Yanow says, "There is a fair amount of variety on this jam session LP. ... The music will be enjoyed by bop fans even though nothing all that essential occurs." and "Excellent bop-oriented jam sessions."

The JazzTimes review states: "Smith's 10-minute face-off with Blakey on 'The Duel' reaches some outré peaks, while the great organist's duet with Donaldson on 'Summertime' is a marvel of melodic improvisation."

Track listing Jimmy Smith at the Organ, Volume 1 Sources:

Jimmy Smith at the Organ, Volume 2 Sources:

Personnel

Musicians

February 12, 1957

Jimmy Smith – organ Lou Donaldson – alto saxophone (except "There's a Small Hotel", "The Duel") Kenny Burrell – guitar (except "Summertime", "The Duel") Art Blakey – drums (except "Summertime")

February 13, 1957

Jimmy Smith – organ Lou Donaldson – alto saxophone (except "Buns a Plenty") Eddie McFadden – guitar Donald Bailey – drums

Technical personnel

Alfred Lion – producer Rudy Van Gelder – recording engineer Reid Miles – design Francis Wolff – photography Robert Levin – liner notes

References