Jazz Articles about Dr. Lonnie Smith

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Miles Davis: Big Fun

by Todd S. Jenkins
June 1, 2001

One of the less-remembered, underappreciated releases in Miles’ discography, revamped for the new century and ready to open some ears.

A few months after the Bitches Brew sessions that broke jazz-rock out like Phoenix from the flames, Miles Davis returned to the Columbia recording studios with the intent to push his music in yet another startling direction. This time around, Miles took inspiration from classical Indian music, interpolating it into rock and jazz structures as the Beatles, altoist Toby Harriott, ...

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Dr. Lonnie Smith: The Turbanator

by John Sharpe
November 1, 2000

Organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, who has often been confused with keyboardist/pianist Lonnie Liston Smith, is perhaps best known for his work with guitarist George Benson and saxophonist Lou Donaldson. Smith’s fiery, funky, R&B-based approach made him the ideal soul-jazz accompanist. Compared to these early efforts, The Turbanator is a rather mellow, albeit very enjoyable, outing. Perhaps that is why this previously unreleased session, which was recorded in 1991, sat on the shelf all those years. This is not to say ...

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The Lonnie Smith Trio: Afro Blue

by Glenn Astarita
November 1, 1997

Veteran organist Lonnie Smith pays homage to John Coltrane on this new release, supported once again by guitarist John Abercrombie and drummer Marvin “Smitty" Smith. The title cut is a mid-tempo burner that relies heavily on the original Trane interpretation of Mongo Santamaria's classic composition. Nothing new or innovative here but honorable mention goes to the great John Abercrombie. His soloing is reminiscent of the early 70's gem “Timeless."

Abercrombie's angular and unusual phrasing serves as a perfect match for ...