Search - Grant Green :: Feelin the Spirit

A unique and worthwhile item in Green's discography.

Thomas Aikin | San Diego, CA | 05/28/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Grant Green may not have had the technical chops of some of the other jazz guitar greats, but his grasp of the soul and feel of the music is unparalled. This session is rather unique in that it is comprised entirely of Gospel standards. While the music is still definitely in the soul-jazz/hard bop vein there is definitely a different feel here. Green's approach to soloing is rather different than usual. He seems genuinely interested in exploring the gospel style, meaning he's more apt towards staying in a groove during a solo and sticking more closely to the melody line. While Green's solos are quite interesting I personally feel a young Herbie Hancock steals the show. Their call and response passages are great with Hancock often coming out on top. I'm quite amazed that at the age of 21 Hancock was already so comfortable as a soloist in such a varied setting. Of course this disc is essential for both fans of Grant Green and Herbie Hancock. Its also a great addition for anyone into soul jazz or someone merely looking for something mellow to chill out to."

Essential Green

Anders Jonasson | Bankeryd Sweden | 08/09/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording from 1962 is one of 3 in serie that Grant did.
There is Latin Bit where he played Latin songs,there is Goin West where he played old "western" songs and finally there is this on which focused on gospel music. The only one that is not available (to my knowledge) on a CD is the somewhat obscure "Goin West" which have the same line up of musicians as "Fewelin teh Spirit" ,I have "Goin West on a vinyl
The album starts off with probably the most funky version ever done of "A closer walk with thee" Hancocks piano is "cookin" behind Green and keeps things going, I have always been amazed by Greens time.. and this tune is a good example of how he could dig deeper and deeper into the groove by changing his way of playing against the pulse. Another highlight is "Nobody knows" that is played as a blues,,it is a very touching version.where Herbie Hancocks pianoplaying behind Green almost "steals the show"
The whole album is very relaxed, smooth and at the same time groovy.
Greens tone is wonderful...clear mellow soulful...
Now I just hope that we will get "Goin West" on CD as well."

Testify!

tin2x | Staten Island, NY USA | 06/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Religious music that smoulders and burns in the hands of Grant Green's tasteful lead lines and the rest of the players on this session. Blue Note knew what they were doing and Grant is probably the most underrated jazz guitarist from his era. He's right up there with Kenny Burrell and Wes Montgomery. And he put the blue in Blue Note. Religious music that works on a Saturday night as well as a Sunday morning!"