Jimmy Smith - 1982 "Off The Top"

The Cuban cigar is described by many aficionados as being the best of its class, the penultimate. Well, analogously, this disc is clearly at the top, albeit, "Off the Top". Further, the band's tempo, range, and tenacity clearly smoke! Smith stretches out on several cuts and reminds me of a revival while the band rhythmically sets the stage. The group's timing is impeccable and clearly demonstrative of the legendary-like status each deserves. This disc, for whatever reason, unfortunately, was not marketed well, so a large audience of the musicians' respective fans are unaware of this gem! Perhaps the spontaneity of the session contributed to that, I'm not sure.

 It was a very, very rare occasion where each musician happened to be in town from either traveling to Kool Jazz Festivals or other gigs. However, I'm not a proponent of chance, so, I believe, very much so, there's a reason these stellar musicians just "happened" to be available at the same time, and only for one day if I recall correctly! Can you imagine that? If you want first-class, top-notch form from each musician individually and collectively, you must have this piece. As well, the reality of it is, this is an historic jazz event to get these all-stars together. Time to go... I have to go get "Off the Top" from my top shelf!

It had been nine years since organist Jimmy Smith recorded for a major label when Bruce Lundvall approached him to make an album for Elektra Musician. Smith plays some unusual material (including Lionel Richie's "Endless Love" and the "Theme from M.A.S.H.") on this recording but swings everything and has a particularly strong supporting cast -- guitarist George Benson, Stanley Turrentine on tenor, bassist Ron Carter and drummer Grady Tate. A fine comeback date.

Five stars for a great jam album. Shining performances all. The notes reveal these men were confronted with adjusting to jet lag, travel fatigue and champagne. They are top artists, each on his respective instrument. The lack of playing through a tune a few times makes those scrambled eggs combine such that all flavors stand out well.but doesn't have the mystery balance, the how'd they do it. The talk by Jimmy Smith, man, he tells it like it is. It would have been nice if these guys could work for a few days connecting before cutting a landmark meeting of giants.

Track listing:

1     Off The Top    
2     Endless Love    
3     Mimosa    
4     I´ll Drink To That    
5     Theme From MASH    
6     Ain´t Missbehavin´    
7     Jimmy Smith Rap    

Personnel:

    Bass – Ron Carter
    Drums – Grady Tate
    Guitar – George Benson
    Organ – Jimmy Smith
    Percussion – Erroll 'Crusher' Bennett* (tracks: 2, 3)
    Saxophone – Stanley Turrentine