Smith, Johnny “Hammond”
Prestige, 2003, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 9.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Kool
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: This is a remastered double feature on 1 CD with headliner Smith gracing the Hammond B3. The first album is Johnny “Hammond” Cooks With Gator Tail from 1962. Willis Jackson (sax), a young Eddie McFadden (g) and Leo Stephens (d) backed him up. The second is The Stinger originally released in 1965 with Floyd Smith (g) and John Harris (d) featuring Houston Person (sax) and Earl Edwards (sax). The vibrant groove that Jimmy played gave him recognition as one of the best from his peers and fans. Tunes like “Neckbones” and “Y’all” set the pace. This set catches him in his prime.
