LOU DONALDSON
The Natural Soul (Blue Note)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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The Natural Soul is a reissue of a 1962 soul-jazz date by the great alto sax player Lou Donaldson. Joined by Tommy Turrentine on trumpet, Grant Green on guitar, John Patton on organ, and Ben Dixon on drums, this session combines blistering funky jazz numbers with several standards. Regardless of the tempo, Lou and his fellow band mates produce groove after groove of extremely listenable jazz.

From the opening song, "Funky Mama," all the musicians are ready to burn. And burn they do. Grant Green turns in a scorching solo, utilizing clear, ringing notes. Tommy Turrentine steps up with some absorbing playing. John Patton smolders throughout. Finally, Donaldson himself nails the essence of funk in his solo effort, demonstrating why Sweet Lou has always been at the forefront of soul-jazz. Additional highlights include "Sow Belly Blues" and the ballads "That's All" and "Love Walked In."

If you like funky organ/saxophone jazz, rush out to get this one before its gone from the stores. As the CD jacket reminds the reader, Lou Donaldson was "one of the pioneers of the organ/saxophone combo." He selected band mates who were like minded and superbly complimented one another. Natural Soul is the result. It is music that you feel as much as hear.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich