For the first time, Jimmy Smith's
sound is augmented by a string orchestra. Sadly the results are a little
erratic. Whilst there are a couple of tracks on here that deserve to be
on the his numerous Verve compliations, there are more that would best be
forgotten (namely tracks a3, a5 and b2). First up is a version of Lalo Schifrin's
famous TV theme. He is said to have preferred the arrangement of this version
to that of his own (to the extent that this tune can be found on some his
'Best Of' compilations). Burning Spear is an oddly understated
tune that features some lovely flute work, as well as a catchy electric
bass. After repeated listens, it begins to resemble the centre point of
the album. Jimmy takes a vocal on Big Boss Man, which is an uptempo
burner somewhat similar in tone to Stay Loose from the album of
the same name and is the punchiest moment on the LP. All in all this album
is just a bit too haphazard for its own good.