28. Jimmy Smith - Back At The Chicken Shack

Release Date: 1960

Label: Blue Note

The front cover is terrible, and sadly the dog is long dead. Going into this I'd never heard of Jimmy Smith, and the album art does nothing to suggest what kind of music he might perform. To put it simply, the album was smooth. It mainly consisted of lots and lots of Hammond Organ, hi-hats and bass scales. That's not to say I didn't like it, in fact I rather enjoyed it. I just think it was a little linear for my taste.

Overall: 6/10

Favourite Track: When I Grow Too Old To Dream

Next Album: Muddy Waters - Muddy Waters At Newport

11. Sabu- Palo Congo

Release Date: 1957
Label: Blue Note

Louis 'Sabu' Martinez is one of those 'world music' musicians who's likey to have appeared on Later... with Jools Holland had he not died in 1979. He'll have probably have had to make do with one song, whilst Sting gets three. Whatever song they choose, I just hope it isn't 'Asabache' because any track with a bloody long percussion solo isn't worth listening to (e.g. Cream- 'Toad'). The albums had its highlights (the guitar work was particularly nifty at times), but they were outweighed by the erm...lowlights. Call me uncultured, but I just wanted something more western.

Overall: 3/10
Favourite Track: Rhapsodia Del Maravilloso

Next Album: Miles Davis- Birth of Cool