One of the most popular, beloved and influential of pianists, the recently departed Ramsey Lewis exuded class and gospel tinged style in everything he touched, even forming the core of Earth Wind and Fire with his first group. These eight albums show that, yes, jazz can be popular for the masses as well as sophisticated.
A 1958 album has Lewis’ trio bringing in trumpeter Lem Winchester for a fitting tribute to Clifford Brwon, with a glorious “Jordu” and cheerful “Joy Spring”. With his team of Eldee Young/b and Red Holt/dr, Lewis gets down to earth including spirituals such as “Dark Eyes” and a lovely “Come Back TO Sorrento”. An hour is spent Lewis in fantastic form. 1963 has Lewis bringing in an extra bassist Christopher White for songs including Cannonball Adderley’s “Barefoot Sunday Blues” and an R&Bish “Lonely Avenue Blues’. A 1963 session brings together a p ot luck of songs from various folk genres, including “Shenandoah” and “Lock Lomond”, with “Arrivederci Roma” thrown in for good measure. The trio hits stride in a concert format at the Bohemian Cavers, giving a medley from the popular “West Side Story” as well as a spry “Fly Me To The Moon”. Music from a real soul, brother.