Album Info
| Artist: | Lonnie Smith |
| Album: | Turning Point |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Worldwide, 21 Jul 2023 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | See Saw | 5:45 |
| Written-By - D. Covay, S. Cropper | ||
| A2 | Slow High | 6:15 |
| Written-By - L. Smith | ||
| A3 | People Sure Act Funny | 6:15 |
| Written-By - J. McDougal, T. Turner | ||
| B1 | Eleanor Rigby | 9:13 |
| Written-By - Lennon-McCartney | ||
| B2 | Turning Point | 8:23 |
| Written-By - L. Smith |
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Description
Lonnie Smith's album Turning Point is a remarkable entry in the jazz organist's extensive discography. Released in 1969 on the Blue Note label, this record captures Smith at a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his ability to blend soulful grooves with adventurous improvisation. Known for his mastery of the Hammond B-3 organ, Smith was a key figure in the soul-jazz movement, and Turning Point exemplifies his talent for creating music that is both deeply rhythmic and harmonically rich.
The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Lee Morgan on trumpet, Bennie Maupin on tenor saxophone, Julian Priester on trombone, Melvin Sparks on guitar, and Idris Muhammad on drums. This ensemble brings a dynamic energy to the recording, with each player contributing their unique voice to the overall sound. The interplay between the musicians is a highlight of the album, as they navigate Smith's compositions with a sense of spontaneity and cohesion.
One of the standout tracks on Turning Point is "See Saw", a lively and infectious tune that showcases Smith's ability to craft memorable melodies. The groove is irresistible, with Muhammad's drumming providing a solid foundation for the rest of the band to build upon. Smith's organ playing is both virtuosic and soulful, demonstrating his command of the instrument and his deep connection to the music.
Another highlight is the title track, "Turning Point", which features a more introspective and exploratory approach. The composition allows the musicians to stretch out and take their time, resulting in a performance that is both meditative and engaging. The interplay between Morgan's trumpet and Maupin's saxophone is particularly noteworthy, as the two players weave their lines together in a way that feels both conversational and deeply expressive.
The production on Turning Point is warm and inviting, capturing the energy of the performances while maintaining a sense of intimacy. The album was produced by Francis Wolff, a co-founder of Blue Note Records, who was known for his ability to bring out the best in the artists he worked with. The recording quality is excellent, with each instrument given its own space in the mix, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of the performances.
Turning Point is a testament to Lonnie Smith's artistry and his ability to push the boundaries of the soul-jazz genre. The album is both accessible and adventurous, making it a great entry point for listeners new to Smith's music, as well as a rewarding experience for longtime fans. It stands as a shining example of the creativity and innovation that defined the Blue Note label during this era.
In the years since its release, Turning Point has been recognised as a classic of the genre, and it continues to inspire and delight listeners to this day. Lonnie Smith's contributions to jazz are immense, and this album is a perfect representation of his talent and vision. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, Turning Point is an album that deserves a place in your collection.
