Search - Jimmy Smith, Eddie Harris :: All the Way Live

Sweet Live Album From Two Incredible Musicians

01/18/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I first heard of this album when a local station played the sublime "8 Counts For Rita," one of the all-time great audience participation songs. When my roommate and I listened to the entire album we both commented on the great warm vibe that emanates from this session.Though Smith and Eddie Harris would never record together again, this CD provides ample evidence that the two could have made dozens of albums together.Harris is in fine form on tenor sax and EWI, and Smith is his usual funky form. Fans of Medeski, Martin and Wood or the sound of the jazz organ in general should check this out. Smith is the master of the Hammond B-3, at once sounding like he's in church, accompanying an old black and white movie, or tossing out tasty vamps on the pedals. Between tunes there's some hilarious banter with the audience in Smith's Louis Armstrong-esque voice."8 Counts for Rita" is the high point of the album, but the mellow "Autumn Leaves" and "The Sermon" are both worth the price of admission as well.This album is one of the best live recordings I've heard that captures the ambiance of being in a small, tightly packed club while the bebop trio wails away. Treat yourself to some cool jazz and buy this CD!!!!!"