What makes Gears by Johnny "Hammond" Smith notable?

Gears is considered a notable entry in the soul jazz genre, receiving critical acclaim for its innovative arrangements and infectious grooves. The album has been influential among contemporary artists in the jazz-funk scene, showcasing Smith's ability to blend genres seamlessly. Released in 1975, Gears was Johnny 'Hammond' Smith's seventh studio album and showcased his mastery of the jazz organ. At this point in his career, he was beginning to establish a unique sound that blended elements of soul and jazz, making significant strides in the genre during the mid-70s.

How many songs are on Gears?

Gears has 6 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Gears

Johnny "Hammond" Smith · 1975

33 min · 6 tracks · soul jazz

A vibrant fusion of soul jazz and funk, rich with lush organ tones and intricate rhythms that invite listeners to groove.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Los Conquistadores Chocolatés — This track stands out for its infectious rhythm and vibrant brass arrangements, embodying the energetic spirit of the album. Its catchy hooks demonstrate Smith's skill at fusing jazz with funk elements.
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Fantasy — With its dreamy melodies and complex harmonies, this track reflects Smith's versatility as an arranger and performer. The atmospheric textures capture the essence of 1970s soul jazz.
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Tell Me What to Do — Opening the album, this track features a captivating groove with soulful vocals that set the tone for Smith's exploration of emotion through music. It showcases his command over the organ while inviting listeners into his musical world.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Gears showcases strong organ-led compositions with infectious grooves and dynamic arrangements, marking it as a notable soul jazz entry.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of the organ as the lead instrument, with intricate solos that weave through the rhythmic foundation.
Each track maintains a strong groove, often layering percussion and bass lines that invite movement from the listener.
The arrangements include varied tempos, with some tracks transitioning from upbeat to more relaxed sections, creating dynamic shifts.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Tell Me What to Do 5:21
2 Los Conquistadores Chocolatés 6:12
3 Lost on 23rd Street 5:57
4 Fantasy 6:09
5 Shifting Gears 5:21
6 Can't We Smile? 4:35

What to play next

Listen next

Forever Taurus

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Go back to

Gambler's Life

1974

Full Johnny "Hammond" Smith discography Artists like Johnny "Hammond" Smith

soul jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata