JIMMY SMITH
Bucket (Blue Note)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Jimmy Smith was almost single-handedly responsible for introducing bebop and "soul jazz" to the organ, thus influencing a whole generation of both organ and keyboard players. He understood the essence of jazz, and was able to communicate his emotions through his chosen instrument. In the process, Smith became a household name during the sixties and seventies.

Bucket! is a 1963 recording session reissued in 2000. Using the organ/guitar/drums format, Smith, along with Quentin Warren on guitar and Donald Bailey on drums, plays several originals and the rest standards. The music is relaxed and laid-back, possessing a serene, carefree quality that soothes the ear. There is a beauty here that is worth hearing. However, this is hardly the passionate, energetic music displayed by Smith on such recording as Chicken Shack, Midnight Special, Open House, or The Sermon. If you are a casual Jimmy Smith fan or looking to purchase your first Smith recording, I recommend focusing on one of the four titles mentioned above. If you are a diehard Smith fanatic, than Bucket! is a smart purchase as it contains considerable Smith without the competition of horns.

© 2000 - Ron Saranich