Root Down (album)

Root Down is a live jazz album by Jimmy Smith, released on the Verve label. It was recorded in Los Angeles on February 8, 1972. It includes the song "Root Down (And Get It)" which was sampled by the Beastie Boys for their song "Root Down."

Track listing

1. "Sagg Shootin' His Arrow" — 7:09
2. "For Everyone Under the Sun" — 5:56
3. "After Hours" — 7:45
4. "Root Down (And Get It)" — 7:44
5. "Let's Stay Together" (Al Green) — 6:30
6. "Slow Down Sagg" — 6:43

2000 remastered edition (Verve By Request series)

1. "Sagg Shootin' His Arrow" [Unedited version] — 11:45
2. "For Everyone Under the Sun" — 5:55
3. "After Hours" — 7:51
4. "Root Down (And Get It)" [Unedited version] — 12:39
5. "Let's Stay Together" — 6:27
6. "Slow Down Sagg" [Unedited version] — 10:22
7. "Root Down (And Get It)" [Previously unissued alternative version] — 12:13

Personnel

• Jimmy Smith: Hammond B3 organ
• Paul Humphrey: drums
• Wilton Felder: bass
• Buck Clarke: congas and percussion
• Arthur Adams: guitar
• Steve Williams: harmonica

A good example of the funky "Acid-Jazz" offered by jazz labels in the early 1970's. This release is a live recording composed of new material, along with a wonderful cover of soul singer Al Green's biggest hit. Bass guitarist Wilton Felder exemplifies the fusion genre, as he played on many of Steely Dan's jazzy rock records during this era. R&B groups like (pre-disco) Kool & The Gang also felt the influence of the organ groups, most of which were organ/guitar/drums trios. Ray Charles and James Brown also recorded in this vein, especially on JB's Smash label sides. Organ trios have come back into style in recent years, due to Hammond manufacturing a digital version of the iconic B3 organ. This is an outstanding CD-four stars in my view.