The Ramsey Lewis Trio were popular from the start, cutting four albums of material during 1958, only two years after
Lewis began teaming up with bassist
Eldee Young and drummer
Red Holt. This recording (one of very few by the group in its early days that were not made for Argo or Cadet) has the trio emphasizing folk songs and traditional melodies such as "Dark Eyes," "Come Back to Sorrento," "John Henry," and "Billy Boy." Their concise interpretations (only two songs are longer than 3:15) feature swinging solos by
Lewis and respect for the melodies. The music (if not essential) is quite accessible while still being jazz oriented. Worth picking up. ~ Scott Yanow