What makes Plain Talk by Jimmy Smith notable?

Plain Talk is notable for its innovative fusion of jazz and soul elements, contributing to the evolution of jazz-funk. The album received positive critical acclaim, further establishing Smith's influence on both the jazz scene and upcoming genres that embraced groove-centric approaches. Released in January 1960, Plain Talk marked Jimmy Smith's sixth studio album during a prolific period in his career. Following the success of previous albums like Back at the Chicken Shack, this record solidified his status as a leading figure in jazz and laid the groundwork for his later explorations into funk and soul.

How many songs are on Plain Talk?

Plain Talk has 4 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Plain Talk

Jimmy Smith · 1960

38 min · 4 tracks · funk

A vibrant blend of hard bop and soulful melodies, showcasing Smith's virtuosic organ playing over intricate rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Plain Talk — The title track showcases Smith's unique ability to weave complex improvisations while maintaining an infectious groove, embodying the essence of the album.
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My One and Only Love — This interpretation highlights Smith's sensitivity as a performer, juxtaposing lush harmonies with fluid melodic lines that reveal depth and emotion.
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Big Fat Mama — With its lively tempo and playful energy, this track exemplifies Smith's mastery of rhythm and his knack for engaging listeners in an upbeat atmosphere.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic organ solos with intricate rhythms, showcasing Smith's skill and contributing to jazz-funk's evolution.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track featuring rapid organ runs and syncopated rhythms, setting a lively tone.
Each track showcases extended improvisation, particularly in the organ solos, which dominate the arrangements.
The second track shifts to a slower tempo, highlighting a contrast in mood while maintaining rhythmic complexity.
The final track features a gradual build-up, layering instruments before concluding with a strong finish.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 Big Fat Mama 11:15
2 My One and Only Love 5:05
3 Plain Talk 15:10
4 Time After Time 6:30

What to play next

Listen next

Back at the Chicken Shack

1960

Go back to

The Sermon!

1959

Full Jimmy Smith discography Artists like Jimmy Smith

funk indie rock jazz fusion

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata