Reviews (page 5 of 13)
Lovely Friday evening tunes, some good jazz came out of PA even if from the wrong side! organ is sick
Solid jazz album I hadn't heard before. Didn't overstay its welcome, either.
Never heard of this, but this is really great!
Première écoute, pas accroché, pas attentive, album laissé de côté. Presque un an plus tard, seconde écoute et toute autre perception : ça claque !! Non décidément il ne faut pas toujours se fier à sa première impression. Ça m'a plu de bout en bout, j'ai aimé cette atmosphère feutrée dopée à l'orgue Hammond dont Jimmy Smith est un virtuose !
Mistakenly thought this was the singer...but pleasantly surprised at the jazzy sounds. A good listen
Very smooth and cool instrumental album
Don't listen to straight jazz very often but I enjoyed this. Wish I had more appreciation
love me an instrumental album
Yeah, I can dig this. Great Jazz album
Cool jazz. Great groove running through this record.
really really nice, the first track didn't hit immediately but i liked the rest of them quick, especially minor chant. some of these are standards which i want to listen to more examples of to see how they are without the hammond, as the spread of the hammond from smith seems to be one of the big draws. very nice album
A damn fine jazz instrumental album. I'll be returning to the chicken shack, or at least to the title track. 8/10
Back At The Chicken Shack is just one of those albums that oozes cool from the very first note. Jimmy Smith is an absolute magician on the organ, and this record is a proper showcase of that talent. It’s smooth, it’s slick, and it’s got such a natural groove to it that you can’t help but vibe along, whether you’re paying full attention or just letting it sit in the background. First off, the playing here is just ridiculous. Jimmy Smith makes that Hammond B3 sound like butter melting on warm toast — smooth, rich, and satisfying. Every track feels alive without ever getting overwhelming. The interplay between Smith, Kenny Burrell on guitar, Donald Bailey on drums, and Stanley Turrentine on tenor sax is absolute class. The sax on this album? Lush as fuck. Stanley Turrentine knows exactly when to come in and how to let the notes breathe. And that guitar work from Kenny Burrell is subtle but effective, never showy, just perfectly placed little licks and chords that add to the vibe. The production is top-notch for its time too. clean, warm, and inviting. There’s a lovely organic feel to the whole thing. You can hear every note, but it’s never sterile. It feels like you’re in the room with them, sat back with a drink in hand, just letting the music wash over you. Honestly, there’s not much I can complain about here. If I had to nitpick, some tracks do start to blend together if you’re not fully tuned in but that’s jazz for you sometimes. And if you’re after something loud and wild, this ain’t it. This is laid-back, groove-heavy stuff. Also, if you’re not in the mood for jazz, I can see it coming off a bit “samey.” But that’s more about the mood you’re in rather than the album itself. I’ve gotta say jazz is just some of the fucking best background music you can put on. This album especially is perfect for that. You can be cooking, having mates round, reading, or just chilling out, and it sets the tone without ever demanding too much from you. It’s smooth, stylish, and just lifts the atmosphere. But what makes this album even better is that if you do decide to stop and really listen, there’s so much going on. It’s that perfect balance. Music that’s there for you when you need it, but not intrusive when you don’t. Back At The Chicken Shack is just class from start to finish. The organ playing is sensational, the sax and guitar work are bang on, and the whole album has a warm, inviting groove that’s hard not to love. It’s one of those albums that you can throw on at any time, and it’ll just make life feel a little bit smoother. Not quite perfect only because it can feel a bit repetitive if you’re not in the right headspace but bloody close. 4.5/5 stars
It's so chill i enjoy and i listen while fun things
7/10 Absurdly chill, front to back, may not be the most mind blowing Jazz you’ll ever hear but makes for some pristine background noise. Anyways, back to fracking
Back at the Chicken Shack 4 When I Grow Too Old to Dream 3.8 Minor Chant 3.8 Messy Bessie 3.7 Score: 3.825
Only knew him from "Root Down", but this was a quality album that kept me listening a few times. Jazz funk that was great for both working and dedicated listening.
I love this stuff!
Seems a bit arbitrary to pick this album over the many others Jimmy Smith released in his and the jazz-organ's heyday. Nice enough but as a musical statement probably not enough of an impact within his catalogue to warrant it top status. Still, great blues-y, jazz-y small combo jams, just like on his 1961 release "Home Cookin'" for example. While Jimmy Smith certainly belongs in the top league of jazz musicians and has great crossover appeal, his art didn't deliver the beacon kind of album that lists such as these are meant to include. Not Jimmy Smith's fault, but rather a feature of the limits when classifying music in top-lists etc.
Probably my second experience with Jimmy’s work, and really enjoyed this one. Nice mix of both his talented keyboard playing with some exceptional brass section.
I enjoyed the jazz keys and sublime little drums under the notes. I'm able to listen to this in the background and nod along wishing I were at a bistro somewhere.
Love how smooth this jazz is .
Normally you wouldn't want to return to the chicken shack unless they serve food and beverages or it's in reference to this album. Classy, well produced album that fits well as background but also complex enough for deep listening.
good 60s organ-ic jazz. as much as i like green onions (the song), this is way more interesting than green onions (the album). the saxophonist here is really selling it but the result is a solid jazz album that i enjoyed listening to a couple times. also, i kept thinking minor chant was about to segue into take five, but sadly that never happened. favorites: back at the chicken shack, minor chant, on the sunny side of the street
New to me and I like it!
Yes good stuff
"Back at the Chicken Shack" is an album by American jazz musician Jimmy Smith. Smith helped to popularize the Hammond B-3 organ and creating a link between jazz and 1960's soul music. Wiki listed this album's genres as jazz, soul jazz and hard bop. The album was produced by Alfred Lion and was recorded in 1960 but not released until1963 on the Blue Note label. Besides Smith who played the organ, the rest of the quartet included Stanley Turrentine (tenor sax), Kenny Burrell (guitar) and Donald Bailey (drums). The self-titled "Back at the Chicken Shack" opens the album. The Hammond organ. A jazzy drum beat. The sax comes in. This sounds more bluesy than jazz. Splitting hairs, I know. This has a similar sound to Booker T. & the M.G.'s "Green Onions" except this album was recorded before that song. A guitar and sax solo. "When I Grow Old Too Dream" really gives that jazz-soul fusion vibe with the organ. The 12-minute closing song "Messy Bessie" showcases the sax, organ and guitar as they take turns giving solos. Excellent drumming by Donald Bailey. This album has a great mellow groove. The organ really gives the music a more bluesy flair but I do hear the soul too. The four musicians are outstanding players and play well together. This is a great album and one that I really see everyone and anyone liking to some extent.
Never heard of Jimmy Smith, but he’s tight. Great musicianship (I initially thought he must be the sax player, as the sax is the shit on most of these songs!). Laser-like rhythm section, cool organ, nice arrangements. Nothing groundbreaking, but in great listen when you just need to listen.
I discovered Jimmy Smith through the Beastie Boys Root Down. This whole album has such a great funky feel and I don’t listen enough so was glad for the chance to revisit.
Very enjoyable listen. Little bit of Jr. Walker or Booker T. vibes, but leaning more towards jazz. The backing music isn’t necessarily amazing, but it’s more than solid and creates a perfect background for the excellent solos throughout the album. I’ll definitely check this one out again in the near future.
lovely 3.5
I’m not really a big jazz fan, but this is fun to listen to. Very funky, deeply rooted in blues. This is the kind of jazz that tries to play with the listener rather than challenge and punish him. Great sax, organ and guitar. Many tasty licks. I can’t judge it on historical significance since I’m relatively ignorant in the genre but the cool music and cover photo is a four for me.
FT
4.5
He reminds me a bit of Booker T. Jones who is a favorite of mine... I'm sure Smith was an influence on him though they are contemporaries. I think early Smith predates Booker T. This is like my ultimate chill music... It may not be a #1 pick, but man when listening to it, I just get lost in the groove. His '64 Christmas album is also a fave of mine. (8.47) ★★★★
This is a fun album. It would be a great record to listen to on a winter night in front of the fire, just relaxing. Glad of the exposure to jazz that I am getting from this list.
In what I can only assume is a result of not really having a lot to talk about with the album. the Wikipedia summary for this album mentions how Jimmy Smith wears the same red shirt for both this and his previous album on both covers. I mention this because I am in a similar position or really not having much to say. It's really easy listening and all well made. I just don't think the passive nature of the album really lends itself to much discussion. I fuck with the album name a lot though
Smooth as silk. Same kind of music you’d hear in some fruity David Lynch joint when the characters enter some bizarre anachronistic diner. I think it’s really just the organ doing that to be honest. Good listen.
So fun!
Hard to not enjoy this, just some simple, no frills jazz. Not going to blow your mind, but sometimes you just want something you can chill out to and this ticks all those boxes.
so sweet
Have to remind my self the greatness came from making the organ a jazz instrument
Enjoyable
Surprised I'd not come across this before. Really fun jazz record with some great grooves. Time just flew by listening to this and I was honestly tempted to just put in on a second time after listening.
Solid jazz and the cover is funny
Unbelievably cool vibes from the cover alone! The outfit, the dog, the garden and of course the titular chicken. And gladly the music matches, just so chill and easy to listen to, like especially while making dinner.
Genuinely great and enjoyable.
Friendly, warm, accessible, welcoming, forgettable
This album will only leave you hungry for chicken, do not listen!
I don’t like Jazz but I really enjoyed this. Great album
Instrumentally very strong 4/5
Nice calming good music
What an album and what a band. Organ jazz didn’t really live on that long but it’s so cool when done right.
It's a good vibe. Overall, fairly unmemorable, despite having solid instrumentals. I'll give it a bonus for having a rather unique cover and name. 'Back at the Chicken Shack' was my fave song.
Good
Rating: 7.5/10 Some nice blues-inspired jazz.
really excellent production and a solid sound which is impressive with how stripped back it is
Very nice
1963 jamming from good ole jimmy I could listen to all the live long day
Really enjoyed it. First album I've saved so far.
Some I would have never listened to without this list. I like it, I hope there is more Jazz to come
This was a really cool like groovy album, it reminded me of The Sandlot and I am always ok with that! It was cool hearing just him play with his band no lyrics just the music, I would definitely listen again!
Very enjoyable. Only thing holding it back from a better score for me was the heavy use of electrical organ -- just not what I prefer in my jazz.
This was a nice listen.
Härlig bluejazz med fokus på hammondorgel, nice att ha i bakgrunden men ingen låt som stack ut. Kort album men långa låtar
This was great! Really chill vibes and great playing. Good way to start the day but I also want to revisit this with some pot perhaps
Ya like jazz? This album would be good then.
Another nice album to listen to and just vibe along with. Probably an 8
Como pode música instrumental (nesse caso jazz) contar tanto sem nenhuma palavra. Jazz é um gênero que eu não cheguei a escutar muito, mas nesse desafio tá sendo uma boa surpresa
Groovy ✨
It has the same vibe as Green Onions by Booker T and MG's. A Jazz and Blues album without lyrics, but very well executed and enjoyable to listen to. I'll give it 4 stars.
Goed jazz album 3.6
7/10 jazz bebop songs are quite long saxophone work amazing organ great but can be repetitive lots of blues
I enjoyed this one as well, nothing objectionable
One step above “total chill”. One can’t help but tap their foot along to the music and smile. Not a “in your face” album, more of a “enjoying the groove” experience. My favorite was their interpretation of “Sunny Side of the Street”.
good music for doing dishes to
Chill, funky, cool
Great funky jazz album. Very easy to listen to
This is well funky!!
Another solid jazz album. Not much else to say. Standouts: When I Grow Too Old To Dream, Minor Chant, and On The Sunny Side Of The Street.
Smooth jazz
Good old school organ jazz. Takes me back to teh 70's
very good thinking/background music :>
Pretty great. 3.5.
Personal enjoyment: 4/5 Relevance to this list: 3/5
Pretty much perfect cool lounge jazz.
Not a genre I'm familiar with but really enjoyed this, perfect background music
didnt notice it much it was chill tho
Reading up on him, I see he is renowned for playing the organ. Honestly it was probably my least favorite part of this album, but the music is still very well done. Very cool
i stan the music part a lot
Awesome album to do chores to 4/5
Without looking it up, I'm guessing the "incredible" Jimmy Smith is the guy on sax, although the organist has chops too. (damn Jimmy step it up, saxman gonna take yer chickens) Album looped and I must have listened three or four times before realising it was the same 5 tracks.
Feels like club penguin
hell yeah. short album but such great pieces!! throwing me on a jazz stint through spotify radio
Pretty decent smooth jazz / blues, this is a good one for chilling out and just going with the flow. Will definitely be listening to this again at so am point, but I don't think very soon
Pleasant but a little dull. Love Stanley Turrentine, but in the proper dosage.
What a chill, great time I had
I don't know exactly what it is but it feels more modern than the date suggests, I like it. Not the usual jazz, feels more smooth with fewer notes and scales.
My god those organ keys were fun
Cool stuff! Very old school and fun. 3.75/5
Jazz :)
4 - good, not too exciting
Great jazz that I have never heard before. Very smooth, not too experimental. Easy to listen to with a nice groove. I added it to my favorites and will be listening to this one again.
I was surprised by this and actually loved it
Great jams
Back At The Chicken Shack might be the biggest BOP on here. Stellar track and an immensely cool album.
Soulful jazz drenched in organ? I’ll take it.
Yes I vibe.
God smooth blues jazz. Fine soloer.
I listened to most of this album while lying on my bed and letting it wash over me. I loved the flexibility of the sound and the journeys each track took
Chicken shack rocks. Solid easy listening. Little too slow for my taste
Not my thing but great
blue note jazz guy. great.
I enjoyed this. Old jazz and big band vibe.
Like running through falls leaves on a wonderfully beautiful autumn day
Blues-Jazz fusion. Det er sgu meget cool
Nice and bluesy jazz wholesomeness.
Maybe it’s because it came after a string of sub par albums, but I liked this more than I expected to. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
Jazz that I really love. That organ sound is just soul cleansing. Very enjoyable! Cant wait to check out his xmas album
this album first came into my life as a listening assignment from Mike LeDonne when he coached an organ quartet I was placed in during my grad school days with the exact instrumentation featured here. the sound of the Hammond organ, compared to a bassist plus a pianist, changed a lot about how I had to react as a member of a band, for a few reasons that are pretty apparent on this album. the Hammond is, in a certain way, a relic of a bygone era. in the fifties and sixties, they were a fixture of jazz bars and clubs owing to their economic value; a skilled organist does the job of two musicians for the price of one! however, the Hammond presents several challenges for the non-organists in the band. chief among these is the instrument's notoriously muddy low end, which can make it difficult for the drummer and guitarist to lock up with the organist's left-hand basslines. there's moments on this album where Jimmy Smith will speed just slightly ahead of drummer Donald Bailey and vice versa; this game of desynchronizing and recoupling just comes with the territory of organ grinding! as such, a lot of the repertoire that organ bands from this era gravitate to is in a soulful hard bop idiom, with simpler song forms that allow for that push and pull. there's perhaps no organist that typifies this sound, style and era better than "The Incredible" Smith, and this album in particular is a masterclass for anyone looking to play with a little more grease (which I, a suburban white kid, definitely needed to do at the time)! given that I'm usually paying the most attention to the saxophonist on any given album, I have to give it up to Stanley Turrentine, who plays a ton of great bebop phrasing with a heavy dose of the blues thrown in. I'm definitely still trying to cop his vibe whenever I play at these medium swing tempos. but Bailey and Kenny Burrell hold their own across this tracklist as well! Bailey's drumming is never too busy, and it's often deceptively technical, particularly on the title track, with its upbeats in the left foot. Burrell's role as rhythm guitarist is often very subtle, but he ties the entire band together flawlessly, and his solo spots are pure, understated genius. newer editions of this album append a version of "On the Sunny Side of the Street" to the end, and I'm never going to say no to that song! it sounds nice in G major. decent 8/10.
This album’s got a laid-back vibe that pulls you right in. The organ is rich and bluesy, almost like it's talking to you. The whole thing rolls out smooth and easy, kind of like a Ray Charles instrumental but with more of a soulful, late-night feel. It’s casual but confident, like it knows exactly what it’s doing without trying too hard.
3.9 1x cool short jazz organ (w sax) album
What a fine jazz album. Easy but fun listening.
A great 60s blues album. Fantastic to chill out to!
This was pretty nice actually. If I'd known it was an instrumental jazz album going in I'd have had low expectations but it's quite a pleasant listen. Good background music for working to
Really nice jazz!
I enjoyed listening to this. Also found one of his Christmas albums, and added that to my own list of music to listen to.
At first I worried about the prominence of the Hammond organ, but I enjoyed this quite a lot.
Definitely on the cool end of jazz - had me feeling like I'd stepped into a Steven Soderbergh movie - time to plan a casino heist! 😎 Fave track - "Back at the Chicken Shack"
This was a really good album. Really nice old school jazz album that I vibed with. Plus, jimmy smith is from Norristown, PA which is even cooler!
good
You know, this was good as hell.
Jazz!
Yessss Hammond. Decent. Enjoyable. Blowing me away like Mingus? No. But definitely going into the repeat play list. Reminiscent of the sort of incidental music that would play behind cartoons like Pink Panther.
Jazz eh? I found this to be good background music
Decent jazz. I liked it. Great sax work, which as I understand was actually Stanley Turrentine, not Jimmy Smith.
Very cool, made me think of Gregg Allman and afterwards found out why.
A chill record.
Sexy
Class. Very influential.
Solid Jazz track that I would put on in the background while doing something else but nothing that jumped out at me or moved me.
jazz. no vocals
Perfect background music for earl6.morning costa rica. 10/10 for the memories, not sure of its something I'd appreciate as much with active listening.
Very good. Delightful vibes. I know I had at least one album by Jimmy Smith, might have had this one in the past. Or maybe checked it out from the library.
This was great. I think the organ tone sold me on it. One I’ll definitely pick up if I see the vinyl for sale.
An enjoyable listen for a Monday afternoon.
Jazz is normally not a favorite of mine, but I enjoyed this! 4/5
Beautiful jazz
Intellectual dinner party music
Immaculate album, genuinely one of the better jazz albums I've heard. Solid 4/5.
I enjoyed this album. It's soft and cozy.
Wonderful jazz. Great instrumentals
Dad music, rad music. The organ sounds like a moog and is brilliant.
Nice jazz. Kinda washes together, but isn't it about the vibes?
just nice jazz
Yo this is groovy as shit. Loving the chill vibes. Definitely background music, would be a great one to have on vinyl in the background playing some games. I really liked this album.
File it under dinner party music. Some nice grooves and the sax is very solid but each song spends about 12 minutes and doesn't stray from the same melody so gets long and repetitive fast. Still pleasant though, not mad about it.
Enjoyed this one.
Classical Jazz, I like it.
I’ve always loved Hammond b3 organ, it was interesting to see who popularized it. Solid jazz album
Great album
easy to listen to
Went in blind, super happy to have heard this. Lovely album.
Virkelig god
fuck yea JAZZZ!
Ahhh yeah....The way this started out! Totally fit my mood this Friday Morning. ooooh that smooth sax on the second track! It's funny I'd never heard of this guy, but just by looking at the song list (only 5 tracks) and their lengths (averaging 8 min and one being 12min) I knew it would be jazz. I do enjoy jazz.
8/10
I enjoy this kind of jazz - just something nice and low-key to have on in the background, not anything pretentious or showy or too "jazzed up."
This guy is great. Infectious and fun.
will need to listen again. verryy chilllll
Not sure I have the best ear for great Vs ok jazz. But I liked this one, a lot of it felt quite familiar (that might be wrong though). Was nice to work to!
Nice chill jazz.
Right off the bat pleasantly surprised.
What can I say, I'm a sucker for jazz
Some nice ambient jazz kinda stuff here. Reminded me of booker t and the green onions and the Dave Brubeck quartet.
There's something about the Hammond organ that just acts as a natural mood elevator.
very good
This is a great summer jazz record.
Alright first album where I have never even heard of the artist! Not sure what genre to expect even. Here we go! okkk starting out strong with some funky organ. Ok ok turns out Jimmy Smith is considered the father of modern jazz organ! Title track "Back at the Chicken Shack" was probably my favorite. Tracks 1-4 are long, meandering jazzy ensembles. Track 5 is more of a "song" - "on the sunny side of the street", and I enjoyed that one a lot. Yeah this rocks and will be a great background album to return to. 4/5!
i was not expecting the sound from the title lol
One of the best things about doing an album a day is that it makes me listen to more Jazz, especially chill, pianobased Jazz like this. What a delight to listen to. Made me feel both classy and at ease.
More Hammond organ goodness.
Honestly not knowing or listening to a lot of jazz , I fully expected to maybe not like the album . What I can then say is , it's just a typical jazz album . Did I like it? Yes Will I come back to it ? Yes Was it sometimes boring and maybe too long for some songs ? Yes . What then is my conclusion ? Typical jazz from the limited jazz I've listened to , but it was okay . The title track was also really enjoyable .
Chill asf, very nice background listen
Bring on the funky Hammond organ! OK, in the end this was a bit more jazzy than funky but good times all the same. 3.5 rounding up 1001 community, if you liked this, check out and support the Delvon Lamar Organ Trio!
Nice easy listening smooth jazz. Nothing mind blowing or captivating, but does it's job well. Great for background music or relaxing. Simple and effective
I preferred the saxophone to the organ, which is a little unfortunate since apparently Jimmy Smith himself is the organist. A super chill album, and one I’ll likely put on again.
Didn't finish listening, but so far liked the good vibes. Not a huge jazz fan but it's quite easygoing as far as jazz goes
Jazzy! Nor my bread and butter but pleasant
Just a great jazz album with really good organ
Not a bad wee album Quite repetitive Would be great dinner music
Funky
I don’t typically go for lyric-less music. This is a really nice, tight representation of jazz music though! I see myself returning to it.
Jazz is not really my thing but this was jolly and easy to listen to. Good background music but I doubt I'd listen for the music itself
Expected more chickens 4/5
Chicken Shack!!
Love Jimmy Smith. His smooth sound is exactly the opposite of hard to listen to. That's why his albums were a go-to over many a Thanksgiving for a reason. Only reason I'm not going full five is that the arrangements are so simple, so as to create great ambient music but not necessarily an attention grabber (like bebop at the time).
Great album, was super fun to listen to all the way through.
cool jazz album
Damn Jimmy. What else you got hiding at the chicken shack
This is another jazz album where I enjoy listening to it in the moment, but it inevitably becomes background music. But I'm not usually a big organ fan, and I didn't hate this, so there's that. The whole thing reminded me of the movie Get Shorty. I guess I'll give it a 4. Even though I probably wouldn't go out of my way to listen to it again, I'd vibe to it if someone put it on. 4/5
After the chaos that is Fat Boy Slim, this was soothing and pleasant.
Jazz animado. Me ha gustado. Un 4.
Very enjoy.
!*
Mojo Jazz
4.5/5. Take me back to the shack.
Very chill. Great vibes.
Mm this is some tasty, bluesy jazz. Loving all of the guitar work on Messy Bessie -- that clean tone is something I'll never tire of. Not to mention some really spacious organ rumination. Not much else to say here. This had great vibes and great musicianship. Solid 4 / 5 for me.
A nice and smooth ride all the way through. Perfect amount of time. Would definitely put this on as background music for a function.
Great surprise - It’s something else than it’s cover art… although in itself that is a great cover. The music is groovy, fun, well played and just a great soundtrack for so many occasions!
From my initial reaction to the cover to my actual enjoyment of the album this is one of the biggest underdog stories so far. Very chill/smooth/funky, great musicianship throughout. My only complaint is that this may have been the same song 5 times in a row and I really have no way of confirming one way of the other.
You knew what time it was the moment you saw this album cover
Awesome, awesome soul jazz. Jimmy’s playing is so fluid, and Stanley Turrentine has one of the most perfect tenor sax tones ever. Great shit. 4.5/5
adorei o jazz, o álbum é legal e tem várias músicas boas.
Amazing trip all the way through. So authentic and real. Opens up like a bright sunrise
Loved this.
Really enjoyed this album.
Vahva kolmepuol kääntyy neloseen.
"Back At The Chicken Shack" by Jimmy Smith is a quintessential jazz album, notable for its blend of blues and jazz and its significant influence on the genre. Released in 1960 on Blue Note Records, the album features Jimmy Smith on the Hammond B-3 organ, Stanley Turrentine on tenor saxophone, Kenny Burrell on guitar, and Donald Bailey on drums. This review will delve into the various facets of the album, including the music, production, themes, and its enduring influence, while also discussing the pros and cons. ### Music The music on "Back At The Chicken Shack" is a prime example of soul jazz, a subgenre that fuses elements of blues, gospel, and jazz. Jimmy Smith's mastery of the Hammond B-3 organ is the album's cornerstone. His playing is both technically proficient and emotionally resonant, delivering a rich, full-bodied sound that defines the album's character. 1. **"Back at the Chicken Shack"**: The title track is a bluesy, mid-tempo groove that showcases Smith's fluid improvisation. Stanley Turrentine's tenor saxophone adds a warm, soulful texture, while Kenny Burrell's guitar complements the organ lines with subtle, rhythmic chord progressions. Donald Bailey's drumming is understated but effective, providing a steady, swinging foundation. 2. **"When I Grow Too Old to Dream"**: This track slows the pace, featuring a more reflective and mellow mood. Smith's organ work is tender and expressive, blending seamlessly with Turrentine's poignant saxophone melodies. The piece highlights the emotional depth that Smith can achieve with his instrument. 3. **"Minor Chant"**: A composition by Turrentine, this track has a slightly darker, modal feel. The interplay between Smith and Turrentine is intricate and engaging, with Burrell's guitar adding a nuanced harmonic layer. The minor key gives the piece a unique flavor compared to the rest of the album. 4. **"Messy Bessie"**: This upbeat number returns to a more traditional blues structure. Smith's exuberant organ lines drive the track forward, while Turrentine and Burrell provide energetic solos. The rhythm section locks in perfectly, creating a lively and infectious groove. 5. **"On the Sunny Side of the Street"**: The closing track is a jazz standard interpreted with a soulful twist. Smith's playful and optimistic organ playing captures the essence of the song, and the entire band delivers a cohesive and uplifting performance. ### Production The production of "Back At The Chicken Shack," handled by Alfred Lion, co-founder of Blue Note Records, is notable for its clarity and warmth. Rudy Van Gelder, the engineer, is renowned for his ability to capture the essence of jazz recordings. His work on this album is exemplary, providing a clean and well-balanced sound that allows each instrument to shine. 1. **Recording Quality**: The album was recorded at Van Gelder Studio, known for its superior acoustics and state-of-the-art equipment. The sound quality is pristine, with a perfect balance between the instruments. Smith's organ is rich and resonant, Turrentine's saxophone is smooth and full-bodied, Burrell's guitar is clear and precise, and Bailey's drums are crisp and articulate. 2. **Mixing**: The mix ensures that each instrument occupies its own space in the sonic landscape. Smith's organ is prominent but never overpowering, allowing Turrentine's saxophone and Burrell's guitar to share the spotlight. The drums are mixed to provide a solid rhythmic foundation without overshadowing the melodic elements. ### Themes The themes of "Back At The Chicken Shack" revolve around the intersection of blues and jazz, capturing the essence of both genres while creating something uniquely soulful. The album's title and cover art, featuring a rustic, rural scene, evoke a sense of nostalgia and simplicity. This ties into the music, which blends the raw emotion of the blues with the sophistication of jazz. 1. **Nostalgia and Simplicity**: The album's title track, with its laid-back groove and earthy feel, evokes a sense of returning to one's roots. The music is accessible yet profound, appealing to both jazz aficionados and casual listeners. 2. **Emotional Depth**: Tracks like "When I Grow Too Old to Dream" and "Minor Chant" explore deeper emotional territory. The former is a contemplative ballad that speaks to the passage of time and the importance of cherished memories. The latter, with its minor key and introspective mood, delves into more complex emotions. 3. **Joy and Playfulness**: "Messy Bessie" and "On the Sunny Side of the Street" bring a sense of joy and playfulness to the album. These tracks highlight the lighter side of Smith's music, emphasizing the fun and energetic aspects of jazz and blues. ### Influence "Back At The Chicken Shack" has had a lasting impact on the jazz world and beyond. Jimmy Smith's innovative use of the Hammond B-3 organ helped to popularize the instrument in jazz and soul music. His style influenced countless musicians and contributed to the development of the soul jazz genre. 1. **Influence on Jazz Organists**: Smith's virtuosity and creativity set a new standard for jazz organists. Artists like Larry Young, Joey DeFrancesco, and Lonnie Smith have cited Jimmy Smith as a major influence on their work. 2. **Cross-Genre Appeal**: The album's blend of jazz, blues, and soul resonated with a wide audience, bridging the gap between different musical communities. This cross-genre appeal helped to bring jazz to a broader audience and paved the way for future innovations in fusion genres. 3. **Cultural Impact**: "Back At The Chicken Shack" remains a touchstone in the jazz canon, frequently referenced in discussions about the evolution of the genre. Its influence extends beyond music, contributing to the cultural dialogue about the intersections of race, identity, and artistic expression in mid-20th-century America. ### Pros and Cons #### Pros 1. **Musical Mastery**: Jimmy Smith's command of the Hammond B-3 organ is unparalleled. His ability to blend technical skill with emotional expression is a major strength of the album. 2. **Cohesive Ensemble**: The interplay between Smith, Turrentine, Burrell, and Bailey is seamless. Each musician brings their unique voice to the table, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound. 3. **Production Quality**: The recording and mixing quality are top-notch, ensuring that the music is presented in the best possible light. The clarity and balance of the production enhance the listening experience. 4. **Emotional Range**: The album covers a wide range of emotions, from joy and playfulness to introspection and nostalgia. This emotional diversity makes it a rich and rewarding listening experience. 5. **Historical Significance**: As a landmark album in the soul jazz genre, "Back At The Chicken Shack" holds significant historical value. Its influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable. #### Cons 1. **Limited Innovation**: While the album is a masterful example of its genre, it doesn't push the boundaries of jazz in the same way that some of Smith's contemporaries did. Listeners seeking more experimental or avant-garde jazz may find it somewhat conventional. 2. **Homogeneous Sound**: The album's cohesive sound is a double-edged sword. While it creates a unified listening experience, it also means that the tracks can blend together, potentially lacking the diversity that some listeners might prefer. 3. **Commercial Constraints**: As with many recordings of the era, the album was designed to appeal to a broad audience. This commercial consideration may have limited some of the more adventurous or unconventional elements that Smith was capable of. 4. **Short Track Lengths**: The relatively short track lengths, typical of the LP format at the time, may leave some listeners wanting more extended improvisations and deeper explorations of the themes presented. ### Conclusion "Back At The Chicken Shack" by Jimmy Smith is a seminal album that stands as a testament to the power and versatility of the Hammond B-3 organ in jazz. Its blend of blues, jazz, and soul creates a timeless sound that continues to resonate with listeners today. The album's strengths lie in its musical mastery, cohesive ensemble performance, high production quality, emotional range, and historical significance. However, it may be seen as limited in innovation, somewhat homogeneous in sound, constrained by commercial considerations, and featuring shorter track lengths than some listeners might prefer. Despite these minor drawbacks, "Back At The Chicken Shack" remains a cornerstone of the soul jazz genre and an essential listen for anyone interested in the development of jazz music. Its enduring influence and appeal are a testament to Jimmy Smith's genius and the lasting impact of this iconic album.
3.8 - This was nice, sometimes felt a bit background. But I think in the right setting this is a lovely album.
Not the most sonically interesting jazz album, but still a pleasant experience. 3.5/5
I really enjoyed this one. It was upbeat and smile-inducing all the way through.
Very solid jazz album. If I had me a record player, I feel like this would be a great one to throw on when you’re just chillin around the house.
Very easy listening, talented musician. Typically don't listen to music that does not contain lyrics but this was exceptional musically
很休闲的jazz
There's some nice sounding jazz here. Nothing too special to make it stand out other than Smith's electric organ skills. It's not bad in any way but the tracks are indistinguishable from each other. "Back at the Chicken Shack" is one of those albums to listen to in the background. It's worth checking out for any jazz fans. 4 stars from me.
This was a fantastic album. A fair amount of Booker T & the MG vibes going for throughout the entire listen.
Really enjoyed this one. Such a groovy chill sound and something I could listen to all the time.
That was nice. Love his organ and the sax was nice too
Really enjoyed this one, note to self: a good work album
Jazz animado. Me ha gustado. Un 4.
Truly an underappreciated record from Jimmy Smith, I get it's not the most innovative compared to someone like Nina Simone or Miles Davis. However, if you learn to just listen and take in what you're hearing than maybe you'd feel more understanding towards the LP. I sat in the car and as I drove I let the instrumentals kinda take control and put me on a journey. I enjoy the Saxy moments and keyboard work truly did a good job. Of course I wouldn't call it anything too amazing but it's really great and deserves a listen.
Loved the chill vibes, felt like I could be cozy at a coffee house or floating on some good green and it would be a perfect soundtrack for my mind!!
Jazz Mit viel Orgel und Trompete
Þetta kom hressilega vel á óvart. Ég þekkti ekki til Jimmy Smith áður en ég byrjaði að hlusta en varð samstundis mjög hrifinn og þökk sé skemmtilegu nafni á plötunni mun ég muna eftir henni og þar af leiðandi setja hana aftur á. Ég fílaði þetta allaveganna mjög mikið.
Great jazz/funk. The sax really dominates.
Bluesy blue blues
One word... Smooth.
welcome to the 60’s
Buen álbum, perfecto para iniciar en este género, álbum movido, bastante alegre y tranquilo
I love everything about this album. Is that a actually a hammond organ? Never heard of this band before, but the whole album is set on heavy rotation now.
Jazz Organ
Some jazz I actually enjoy
Cool stuff that influenced a whole shitload of even cooler stuff!
This was fun. Just some chill relaxing music for the morning
Some reviews on here say this is good cookout music and I concur. Fire up the barbecue, have a cold one and put on this album for a chill, good time. Solid stuff.
Just some great jazz.
I was already familiar with this and enjoyed it very much. It is good organ-driven blues-influenced jazz. It's a nice relaxed listen.
Very nice. 4 stars
8/10. Great album. Seemed structured but still unique. Back at the Chicken Shack and Minor Chant made the 5⭐️ playlist.
D great way to start the day!!
Soul Jazz. Pretty standard bop with Jimmy Smith playing organ over top. I don't know if it's that I was not in the right mood for it but I was pretty unimpressed with this record. Like yes the top tier musicianship is pretty clear through the whole record, great guitar, sax, and organ parts, but I just wasn't sucked into it like I had hoped. I did appreciate that it was a different twist on jazz than I am used to, but only slightly. It had me bobbing my head, tapping my foot at times so I gotta give it props for at least being able to do that. Overall there's not a whole lot I can say on it, just wasn't feeling it this time. Probably won't revisit, but I did enjoy it enough. 3.5/5
greatness
Picture this..... You wake up Monday morning after a 3 day cocaine bender with the phone ringing. You answer it and it's the famous movie producer on the other line. He reminds you that the movie score you promised him is due today. In a panic and with your head pounding, you tell him it's done and you'll have it to him this afternoon. You reach for your music collection, while barely holding in your hungover nausea, and find this album. You think to yourself "yeah, this could work as background music in any movie". 8 months go by and you have been blacklisted by Hollywood. You now live under an overpass next to the freeway known only as the man who scored 'Schindler's List 2' with 'Back at the Chicken Shack'. 4 out of 5 stars
A bit short, love the Rhodes in the back
Cool album. Very Booker T with more sax. Definitely something to throw on in the background that supports the party. I need to get better at full focus on albums without lyrics. It's hard for me to stay in the pocket there.
Sound track for a high class affair
Another artist I have never heard of. This album is great. Great jazz record. I really enjoyed the organ playing.
I did not expect a chicken shack to be as chill as this.
Always an enjoyable listen! Take me back to the shack anytime Jimmy! 4/5
I really enjoyed the grooves and melody on this one. 4.0/5.0: Great
Blues might not be my cup of tea, but maybe because I am not used to it. But I can see it as a music to enjoy during a journey, eyes closed, low light and a drink with some smoke
Good chilling music should add to playlist
I can't really get into jazz, Brilliant Corners rolled right off my smooth brain and the only time I cried watching La La Land was out of boredom; but i do love the 60s, and there's something I can't quite place about 60s jazz that makes it easier to listen to. Perfect background music, I am at a dinner party, I'm in a Pink Panther cartoon, I'm wearing a turtleneck, I am the 60s.
oh yea baby that's where its at. Starting off with a nice grooving piano and jazz band accompaniment. Altogether a beautifully smooth journey of jazz. Will definitely relisted at some point.
This is a classy and timeless sounding album. It feels super familiar but maybe because it's kind of elevatorish or maybe hotel lobby. Still, I can see myself turning this on during a warm Spring afternoon chilling in the hammock. Nice even listening.
This album was not what I expected, a definite surprise. Just a big long blues jam for the whole thing. You could just put this on at a summertime party, hang out and have a good time. Very enjoyable
Favourite tracks: back at the chicken shack
Ja, toch jazzy, toch erg lekker. Ik blijf hier groot fan van
I love the blues. It gets a little repetitive though but its still a great listen.
Yeah this is fantastic. Not much to say but I will absolutely be returning to Jimmy Smith’s wonderful jazz organ playing. The whole band is amazing.
Giving this a high score for being “the best version of this thing you could ask for.” People are right, the sax player totally upstages the organist! Then again, what does music sound like where the organist upstages the sax player? That would be weird. The B3 has a very sly way of just slotting into the texture. I love this. Definitely could see myself coming back to this again and again and putting it on in several environments. 4/5
As smooth and clean as a jazz recoding can be. Masterful album thet flows like wine in the villas of the breezy mountains of guatemala in the village of santo poco. I can listen to this all dey feels like one neverending song that you can loop over amd over again amd still never feel its the same. Insane skills as musicians not one single flaw detected. Very soothing ans relaxing could be background music for my life.
Jimmy Smith’s organ playing is great and obviously anchors the whole album, with Stanley Turrentine on tenor sax serving as a nice counterpoint, riding shotgun on top of the groove, and getting lots of solos. This is all held together with understated drumming and guitar work from Donald Bailey and Kenny Burrell who both get their own moments to shine. A groovy, rock solid, little jazz album, ‘Back At The Chicken Shack’ is super enjoyable.
Let's start with the great album art. Then Blue Note has me intrigued since I know they're an influential jazz label. I don't know that I've even heard of Jimmy Smith before, but right off the bat, I like the sound. Lively straight-ahead jazz, but with a bit of what I think of as a later 20th century sound—almost a bit more "funky" in a way (like the cover art). At first I don't even know what Jimmy Smith is doing on this record—which instrument? But the organ sure is prominent, and with some reading I learn that he's one of the first people to play the organ (Hammond B-3, to be specific), and now I hear what's unique about this sound. Great stuff, and probably really influential I assume. He's surrounded by some great players and soloists too. The sax especially, but also that guitar on Messy Bessie...
Really delightful, probably listened to it 3 or so times just letting it roll back to the start because it is very peaceful and fun to listen to. I like seeing the organ being used so prominently.
Easy listening. I will return to this, I’m sure.
Loved it.
Great old Instrumental Jazz!!!
3.5/5
This is a very fun, enjoyable album
Back at the Chicken Shack is a very odd title for this smooth, cool, jazz album. Definitely something I will put on while cooking and hanging out with friends.
Not bad. Not bad at all.
Jimmy Smith is just cool, full stop. I love the way he gives plenty of space to the quartet. And Stanley Turrentine and Kenny Burrell are awesome on this album.
I don't know what happens at the chicken shack on a normal day, but with Jimmy Smith it's smooth and a little funky. Great music to relax go on a Sunday morning.
Muy bueno la mera neta
Crikey that was a good album. Excellent jazzy blues all the way through. I'm a big Kenny Burrell fan already, so it was bound to resonate with me.
Doesn't set my world alight but thoroughly enjoyable to listen to
The kind of jazz I’d listen to eating dinner outside on a summer’s evening
Solid.
Really great jazz! I'd happily listen to this again.
Album 344 of 1001 Jimmy Smith - Back At The Chicken Shack Rating : 4 / 5 Some great jazz. If you want something that sounds like you're sitting at a smoky jazz club back in the day...this is the one.
Great for summer background. Sittin on da porch. Cookin a nice meal. Do something active but lowkey, turn this bad larry on.
First album on my list and first jazz I’ve listened to Relaxing kitchen cleaning music Not sure it’s my vibe but I see why people like this
aikak ova 3,5/5
It was really good to have on in the background. I probably played it through about 3 times all day.
Great funky jazz. Funny dog in the album cover
jazzy
"""Harmonically complex,"" as the editors claim, it may be, but it's also kinda neutral and dull. Stanley Turrentine steals the show. Burrell also great. Hammond B3 functions as rhythm section mostly, occassional forays into church music soloing. Overall, solidly groovy.