JIMMY SMITH
Cool Blues (Blue Note)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Cool Blues was recorded live in New York City during 1958, and just remastered and re-released with three additional songs from that performance. All the songs feature Jimmy Smith on organ. Smith was the person responsible for demonstrating that the Hammond organ could and should be used for jazz. He was joined by Lou Donaldson on alto saxophone for six numbers, Tina Brooks on tenor for four songs, Eddie McFadden on guitar for all the tunes, Art Blakey on drums for three numbers, and Donald Bailey on drums for the remaining five.

Just about any Jimmy Smith album from his Blue Note period that features him with horns is a must buy. Cool Blues is no exception. The eight songs are all blues and bop classics, and all are hot. Smith seemed to bring out the best in his horn men, and here they solo with formidability and remarkable innovation. The band as a whole superbly compliment each other and their playing, whether leading or backing, is tasteful. Particular favorites are "Dark Eyes" and "Cool Blues," a Charlie Parker number.

Smith is outstanding throughout, with a plethora of ideas throughout his solos. The sound is mono, but you won't notice. Smith was originally discovered by Blue Note in 1956 in Small's Paradise, the legendary Harlem nightclub. This recording occurred at Small's two years later. What blows my mind is that Jimmy Smith began his musical career playing piano and it wasn't until 1955 that Smith began to conceive of a revolutionary use of the organ. He rented an organ until he could afford to buy one of his own. So, do the math, the man had only been playing organ for approximately two years at the time of this recording. Amazing.

Cool Blues is Jimmy Smith's regular trio joined by guests Blakey, Donaldson, and Brooks. All sound relaxed yet focused. Do yourself a favor and purchase this music immediately so you too can relax and dig the incomparable Jimmy Smith. You won't be disappointed.

© 2002 - Ron Saranich