What makes The Stinger by Johnny "Hammond" Smith notable?

The Stinger is significant as it showcases Smith's unique style that blends jazz improvisation with soul influences, contributing to the evolution of soul jazz. The album received positive reviews for its energetic performances and has been influential among subsequent artists in the genre. Released in 1965, The Stinger was Johnny 'Hammond' Smith's third studio album, following his acclaimed debut, Soulful Kinda Man. At this point in his career, Smith was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the soul jazz genre, known for his expressive organ playing and innovative arrangements.

How many songs are on The Stinger?

The Stinger has 6 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

The Stinger

Johnny "Hammond" Smith · 1965

32 min · 6 tracks · soul jazz

A vibrant fusion of soul and jazz, where infectious grooves meet emotive melodies played on the organ.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Stinger — The title track features a captivating melody and dynamic rhythm that encapsulates the album's vibrant energy and Smith's virtuosic organ work.
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You Don't Know What Love Is — This track highlights Smith's ability to convey deep emotion through his playing, transforming a standard into a soulful exploration of longing.
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Benny's Diggin' — With its upbeat tempo and infectious groove, this track stands out as a perfect example of Smith's skillful blending of jazz elements with soul.

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

The album blends infectious grooves with emotive melodies, showcasing Smith's unique style in soul jazz.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a prominent organ riff, setting a lively tone for the record.
Each track showcases extended improvisation, with the organ often taking the lead while the rhythm section provides a steady groove.
The final track features a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood, contrasting with the upbeat nature of earlier songs.

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 The Stinger 6:48
2 There Is No Greater Love 5:34
3 Brother John 4:01
4 Cleopatra and the African Knight 5:05
5 You Don't Know What Love Is 7:01
6 Benny's Diggin' 4:14

What to play next

Listen next

The Stinger Meets the Golden Thrush

1966

Go back to

Mr. Wonderful

1963

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

soul jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata