Simba

Description

We are proud to present a new series of reissues from Mr Bongo exploring the incredible catalog of Sonny Lester's iconic label Groove Merchant. First up is the captivating soul jazz album "Simba" by guitar maestro O'Donel Levy. Born in Baltimore, Levy was already considered one of the top emerging jazz guitarists at the time of Simba's release. After touring with George Benson and Jimmy McGriff, and appearing on McGriff's Black Pearl album on Blue Note, he subsequently signed with Sonny Lester's Groove Merchant. Produced by Lester himself and recorded over two consecutive days of sessions in 1973, Simba features a who's who of 70s session musicians. The album features legendary studio drummer Steve Gadd, Cecil Bridgewater on Flugelhorn, Tony Levin on bass, and arrangements by Manny Albam. Tight yet effortless funk rhythms, the tracks showcase these musicians at their zenith. The album opener, "Bad, Bad, Simba," would not have been out of place on a 70s Lalo Schifrin car chase soundtrack. Levy's playing is brilliant, bright, and fluid, with an exuberant and infectious energy that is perfectly complemented by Gadd's supreme drumming.