Dr. Lonnie Smith (Organ): Afro-Desia

The second part of our Mr. Bongo series, in which we dig up classic recordings from the legendary Groove Merchant Records catalog. This time it's all about Hammond B3 organ maestro Lonnie Smith, whose cosmic jazz-funk journey "Afro-Desia" we are proud to present as a reissue. Released in 1975, the album was produced by Sonny Lester, owner of the Groove Merchant label, and features the mysterious "Compliments Of A Friend" on guitar. Considering that Smith was part of George Benson's quartet in the 60s, the not-so-discreet veil seems to have been lifted on who this "friend" might be. Presumably for contractual reasons, however, Benson had to remain hidden for this recording. But that's not all, because legendary bassist Ron Carter and Grammy-winning saxophonist Joe Lovano are also involved. The two-part album features Lonnie Smith on the first side in a spacey, cosmic jazz-funk setting. The opener "Afrodesia" is a funky, steamy groover. Greg Hopkins and Lavano trade off on trumpet and saxophone respectively, while the bass line makes its way over fluttering jazz percussion and quirky electronics. Spirits Free" is an epic, 15-minute, freewheeling jazz-funk workout. A mind-melting trip that is sometimes expansive, sometimes serene, with Smith's organ playing complemented by stretched horns. The piece soon opens up into unforced, flowing sections that live up to the title. Pure 70s jazz funk at its best. Side B is more classic soul-jazz with a hint of Latin. Straight To The Point" begins with a carnival-like swing, with the brass and organ lines providing a fiery party punch. It's a swinging jazz tune that was spun by the DJs at Russ Dewbury's Jazz Room in Brighton in the 90s. "Favors" and "The Awakening" close the release. Two unerring Hammond grooves that make up the core of Lonnie Smith. Both conjure up images of sold-out, smoky jazz bar jams where each player brings the crowd to a frenzy with masterful improvisations.