What makes Somethin' Slick! by Jack McDuff notable?

Somethin' Slick! was well-received in the jazz community, contributing to the popularity of soul jazz during the 1960s. The album showcases McDuff's innovative approach to arranging standards and original compositions, influencing a generation of jazz organists. Released in 1963, Somethin' Slick! marked Jack McDuff's fourth album, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the soul jazz movement. This album followed his breakthrough release, Got My Own, and displayed his growing mastery of the organ alongside a talented ensemble.

Who is Somethin' Slick! for?

Somethin' Slick! works well if you're into spontaneous dancing in joyful spaces, upbeat grooves for social gatherings and celebratory vibes for sunny days.

Somethin' Slick!

Jack McDuff · 1963

5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of soul jazz infused with playful grooves and infectious rhythms, showcasing McDuff's distinctive organ style.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Our Miss Brooks — This track opens the album with an infectious groove and features lively interplay between McDuff's organ and the horns, establishing the energetic tone for the record.
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Somethin' Slick — The title track exemplifies McDuff's signature sound, blending soulful melodies with rhythmic complexity that invites listeners to fully engage with its dynamic structure.
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Smut — This composition showcases McDuff's playful side, featuring clever arrangements and engaging improvisations that highlight both humor and musicality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, with a distinctive sound in the soul jazz genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a lively organ riff that sets a playful tone, which is maintained throughout the first three tracks.
Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes rather than sticking rigidly to written arrangements.
The final two tracks slow down the tempo significantly, creating a contrast that emphasizes the earlier upbeat material.

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: 6/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

spontaneous dancing in joyful spaces
upbeat grooves for social gatherings
celebratory vibes for sunny days
easy listening during casual moments

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective tracks
looking for deep lyrical content

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1963, Somethin' Slick! marked Jack McDuff's fourth album, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the soul jazz movement. This album followed his breakthrough release, Got My Own, and displayed his growing mastery of the organ alongside a talented ensemble.
Stylistic neighbors: Jimmy Smith· Booker T. Jones· Larry Young