Vagabond Synth Nerd’s Journal Vol. 59 - Electric Keyboards and Synth Albums that Adorn Music

Hammond Organ Master Players and Notable Albums Feature Part V: Jazz Edition - Larry Goldings Feature and Christmas Party with the Best Solos

In this edition of “Vagabond Synth Nerd's Journal”, I will introduce some wonderful tracks with fantastic organ solos from classic albums that feature the Hammond organ, a legendary instrument often associated with both rock and jazz, as well as a jazzy Christmas album! Both albums are filled with the charm of the Hammond organ. Typically, when thinking of the Hammond organ, one might recall black players, but these two albums feature white players, not black ones.

■ Recommended Album: Various Artists – Jazz Christmas Party (1997)

Jazz Christmas Party lives up to its name with a collection of pop and jazzy tracks. Included are songs from Michael Franks and a track featuring Kirk Whalum (SAX) and organist Larry Goldings on the track, "Cradle in Bethlehem", which is outstanding.

Recommended Track: Kirk Whalum – "Cradle in Bethlehem"

A wonderful classic that’s full of Christmas spirit. Larry Goldings has collaborated with famous musicians such as Steve Gadd (Drums), Maceo Parker (SAX), James Taylor (Vocals), and John Scofield (Guitar). When asked about the best organ solo I’ve ever heard, I would say without hesitation that it's this one from "Cradle in Bethlehem"! It’s an absolutely fantastic solo that’s melodic and emotional. It’s not a long solo, but within its short duration, it stands out as one of the best. A must-listen!

■ Recommended Album: Greg Mathison Project – The Baked Potato Super Live! (1982)

Born in 1950, Greg Mathison is a Los Angeles-based keyboard player, composer, and producer. He has worked across a wide range of genres, from jazz to pop and rock. He first gained recognition in 1978 for his work on the album Night Wanderer by Larry Carlton, which included the hit track "Room 335”, where he served as keyboardist and arranger. He also contributed to Donna Summer’s hit song "MacArthur Park" and he worked on solo albums for Airplay’s vocalist Tommy Funderburk, making him one of the most in-demand keyboardists of his time.
A few years ago, Mathison released a solo album as well. While this album isn't primarily organ-focused, it captures the spirit of the West Coast by showcasing the sound of the region.
This particular album is a live recording from the Los Angeles nightclub The Baked Potato.
The session features Greg Mathison alongside Steve Lukather (guitar from TOTO), Jeff Porcaro (drums), and Robert ‘Pops’ Popwell (bassist from The Crusaders). The producer is Jay Graydon, the guitarist from Airplay! Given the lineup, this is an impeccable live album.
However, despite being recorded at The Baked Potato, this album was never released in the United States. There were rumors that the musicians didn’t want to release it.
The album carries a strong sense of comfort, with musicians who were tired of studio work and just playing music they enjoyed. It’s a live album that showcases their true skills, and despite being a bit rough, it reflects what the young musicians of that time were aspiring to. It’s one of my personal favorite albums.
There are two different album covers. The first record I bought had the cover on the left, but when it was later released as a CD, they released it with the cover on the right. Recently, it seems they’ve reverted to the left cover. The cover on the right is quite generic, while the one on the left is much more appealing.

Recommended Track: "Thank You"

This track stands out for the space between the sounds of the four musicians, as it is recorded live without any overdubbing (although in live performances, sometimes overdubbing is done in the studio to enhance the sound). Greg plays only the Hammond organ and the Minimoog synthesizer. Despite the somewhat thin or sparse sound, it gives you the feeling of being in a live house, listening to a great performance.
Greg's Minimoog solo is well-phrased and expressive. During the Moog solo, there is no Hammond backing, and while the solo might seem rock-oriented at first, you can also hear elements of jazz methods that make it very enjoyable. The structure and the way the Minimoog is played are excellent. Lukather’s guitar backing, which hits all the right spots, is also remarkable.

Recommended Track: "I Don’t Know"

This track starts with Greg Mathison’s Hammond playing chords, followed by the Moog playing the theme. The tempo of the song highlights the tightness of Steve Porcaro’s drumming and brings out the rockin’ groove of the four musicians. Greg's Hammond solo is restrained and, although it doesn’t involve rapid runs, the structure of the solo, with its focus on the melody, keeps it fresh and interesting. You can also feel the experience and confidence of a seasoned professional in the way he handles the Leslie rotation.

Musicians, Albums, Recommended Tracks, and Keyboard Equipment Featured in This Issue

• Artists: Greg Mathison, Larry Goldings
• Albums: The Baked Potato Super Live!, Jazz Christmas Party
• Tracks: "Thank You", "I Don’t Know", "Cradle in Bethlehem"
• Keyboard Equipment Used: Hammond B-3 Organ, Minimoog Synthesizer

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