Back at the Chicken Shack

An enjoyable 40 minutes of smooth, soulful jazz. One which is very pleasing but not so pleasing that it fades into the background. I was surprised by how much I recognised from film and television. Jimmy is clearly one of those artists which is integrated and hidden within the culture.

Es muy tranquilo, no llega a aburrir pero se llega a sentir como musica de fondo, son canciones largas y mantienen el sonido con el que inician

Back at the Chicken Shack by Jimmy Smith was my introduction to the Hammond organ, and what a fantastic sound it is. From the opening notes, the organ completely dominates the album and gives it a distinctive character that is both soulful and incredibly cool.

The overall sound is relaxed, warm and effortlessly stylish. There’s a groove running through the entire record that makes it very easy to sink into, and at times I could hear elements that would later influence the sounds of Northern Soul and ska. Whether that's actually the case or not, there’s definitely something timeless about the feel of this album.

What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere it creates. It’s the kind of record you can put on in the background and enjoy, but it also rewards closer listening thanks to the quality of the musicianship. The Hammond organ is the star of the show, but every player contributes to the album's laid-back charm.

Favourite track: “Back at the Chicken Shack”
Least favourite track: Every track is worth listening to, although the album can feel a little repetitive at times
Album artwork: Lovely dog on the cover!

Perfectly fine jazzy funk blues. Nothing particularly standing out to me, but nothing to complain about. Onto the next album.

This was really good. Really groovin'. Also love the album cover. Orange sweater, chickens and a dog can't be beat.

Just soooo dull. It’s like being stuck on hold listening to muzak

I still don't understand jazz.

I still don't particularly enjoy jazz.

The first track made me think of Austin Powers.

I still find the genre name "Hard Bop" very funny.

Calling yourself "The Incredible" Jimmy Smith displays some major confidence levels.

A+ album cover art.

1/5 (but should really be 1.5)

YAYY

The next time, which will be the first time, I host a Mad Men-themed dinner party, I now know the perfect album to have playing in the background. Very suave.

Jazz is not really my thing. Background music at best for me.

No está mal, por momentos la música es agradable pero nunca me ha gustado ese organito sesentero (solo se lo perdono a Serge Gainsbourg) que me arruina las canciones. Por lo demás, bien.

I don't care what anyone says about this album. It's peak.

I rather enjoyed this as a gentle, breezy album to laze around to in my hostel bed after last night's fun.

Quite similar to Booker T. & the MGs compositionally and in sound; where the Hammond organ exudes warmth, whilst the drumming here is a joy to wrap your head around, propelling these tracks into interesting directions. Back At The Chicken Shack felt a lot more engaging to me, however, owing to its utilisation of the saxophone in an almost "vocal-like" fashion, where every note tells a story.

Ya like jazz?

Wasn’t sure what to expect and I loved it I appreciate jazz and keep growing an interest in it and this was the perfect soundtrack to begin my work day. Added to my list of vinyl to buy.

So that's how you make a Hammond organ not shit!

Jesus these are long songs. That's a cute dog tho.
This is another one I could see myself playing in the background at a family gathering. My Nana & Poppa would have (and probably did) love this.

HE'S AN ORGAN PLAYER!!!!!!

very nice! put it on while I was studying for physics and it was unobtrusive. As per my last review I love a good saxophone. Every song is like 5,000,000 minutes long and I didn't really notice the track turnover. Just...5,000,000 (43) minutes of cool jazz.

free-range

Overall: 6/10
Album doesn’t resonate with me exactly. It’s good, but not resonating with me. This is the type of music I like to study to. Very laidback.

Back at the Chicken Shack: A bit too long for my liking, but not bad.

When I Grow Too Old To Dream: Sax is doing well. Something I’d study to.

Minor Chant: I enjoy this one a lot actually.

Messy Bessie: pretty good, but too long.

On the Sunny Side of the Street: pretty cool.