The Sermon (Jimmy Smith album)

The Sermon is a 1959 jazz album by American jazz organist Jimmy Smith, released on Blue Note Records. It is considered one of Smith's most significant and influential recordings, showcasing his virtuosic Hammond B-3 organ playing and solidifying his position as a leading figure in the development of soul jazz.

The album features a quartet of notable musicians: Jimmy Smith on organ, Tina Brooks on tenor saxophone (on tracks 1 and 3), Eddie McFadden on guitar, and Art Blakey on drums. The title track, "The Sermon," is a lengthy and dynamic performance, often cited as a classic example of Smith's improvisational skill and his ability to build a cohesive and engaging musical narrative.

The album's other tracks include "J.O.S," "Flamingo," and "Autumn Leaves," each offering a different showcase for Smith's organ stylings and the interplay between the musicians. The compositions blend blues, gospel, and swing elements, creating a sound that is both sophisticated and accessible.

The Sermon was recorded on August 25, 1958, and February 25, 1959, at Rudy Van Gelder Studio in Hackensack, New Jersey. The album's success helped popularize the use of the Hammond organ in jazz and influenced countless musicians across various genres. It remains a highly regarded and frequently reissued album in the jazz canon.