New – Smith, Lonnie – Drives – LP

One of the most creative and funkiest organists of all time,Lonnie Smithwas first introduced to Blue Note listeners by standout sideman appearances with saxophonist Lou Donaldson who featured the B3 virtuoso on late-1960s soul jazz classics includingAlligator Bogaloo,Mr. Shing-a-Ling, andMidnight Creeper. Smith went on to lead his own excellent Blue Note dates including his label debutThink!(1968) andTurning Point(1969). As the calendar turned to 1970, he was back in Van Gelder Studio on January 2 to recordDrives, a showcase of the organists unparalleled sense of adventure and indomitable groove. With a sturdy 5-piece band featuringDave Hubbardon tenor saxophone,Ronnie Cuberon baritone saxophone,Larry McGeeon guitar, andJoe Dukeson drums, Smith delivers a dynamic program including funky takes on recent hits like Edwin Starrs Twenty-Five Miles and Blood, Sweat & Tears Spinning Wheel, as well as a fleet version of Miles Davis Seven Steps to Heaven full of twists and turns.

This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Edition is stereo, all-analog, mastered byKevin Grayfrom the original master tapes, and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.

Musicians:
Lonnie Smith – Organ
Dave Hubbard – Tenor Saxophone
Ronnie Cuber – Baritone Saxophone
Larry McGee – Guitar
Joe Dukes – Drums

Features:
Blue Note Classic Vinyl Reissue Series
All Analog 180g Stereo Vinyl LP
Mastered by Kevin Gray Directly From the Original Master Tapes
Manufactured at Optimal in Germany