- Jimmy Smith "The Sermon !" 180 gram Audiophile Vinyl LP !
- Blue Note Records – Tone Poet Audiophile Vinyl Reissue Series !
- All-Analog Mastering from the Original Master Tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio !
- Produced for Reissue by Joe Harley !
- Pressed at Record Technology Incorporated (RTI) !
- Deluxe Gatefold Tip-On Jacket !
- Stereo Edition !

An electrifying masterpiece of soulful jazz, irresistible swing and extraordinary improvisation from the undisputed master of the Hammond B3 organ.

With The Sermon!, the legendary Jimmy Smith delivers one of the most exhilarating recordings of his remarkable career. Originally released by Blue Note Records, this celebrated album captures the irresistible combination of blues, hard bop and organ jazz that helped establish Smith as one of the most influential and innovative musicians in the history of jazz.

A true pioneer of the Hammond B3 organ, Jimmy Smith revolutionized the instrument's role in modern jazz. Through his extraordinary technique, rhythmic imagination and unmistakable sense of groove, he transformed the organ into a powerful and expressive solo voice, capable of combining the harmonic richness of a jazz piano with the driving energy of an entire rhythm section.

Recorded at Manhattan Towers in New York on August 25, 1957, and February 25, 1958, The Sermon! brings together an exceptional gathering of Blue Note musicians. Alongside Jimmy Smith are trumpeter Lee Morgan, saxophonists Lou Donaldson, George Coleman and Tina Brooks, guitarists Kenny Burrell and Eddie McFadden, and drummers Art Blakey and Donald Bailey. Their inspired performances capture the spontaneous excitement of extended studio jam sessions, beautifully recorded by legendary engineer Rudy Van Gelder.

The album opens with the monumental title composition, "The Sermon", an extended blues performance occupying the entire first side. Built around an irresistible groove, the piece unfolds through a succession of inventive solos, allowing each musician to explore the expressive possibilities of the blues with remarkable freedom, confidence and imagination.

The second side begins with "J.O.S.", a vibrant and rhythmically compelling composition that highlights Smith's remarkable command of the Hammond organ and the exceptional interplay between the musicians. The album concludes with the beautiful ballad "Flamingo", featuring a particularly memorable performance by Lee Morgan, whose expressive trumpet playing brings warmth, elegance and emotional depth to this timeless melody.

Throughout these three extended performances, Jimmy Smith demonstrates the extraordinary musical personality that made him a defining figure of soul jazz. His rich harmonic textures, dazzling improvisations and deeply rooted blues sensibility create an atmosphere of infectious energy and unmistakable authenticity.

Presented in the prestigious Blue Note Tone Poet Audiophile Vinyl Reissue Series, this exceptional stereo edition has been mastered entirely in the analog domain by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio from the original master tapes, under the supervision of acclaimed producer Joe Harley. Pressed on 180 g vinyl at RTI and housed in a beautifully produced deluxe gatefold tip-on jacket, this edition offers an outstanding opportunity to rediscover one of Jimmy Smith's most celebrated recordings.

An essential album for admirers of Jimmy Smith, classic Blue Note jazz and the timeless sound of the Hammond B3 organ. A magnificent addition to any collection of exceptional audiophile vinyl recordings.