“Mr. Soul” is an album by John Wright, recorded on April 10, 1962, at Rudy Van Gelder Studios, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and originally released on Prestige Records (PR 7234). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-108) revives this record with remastering that emphasizes the piano’s depth, courtesy of Rudy Van Gelder. The lineup features John Wright (piano), Wendell Marshall (bass), and Walter Perkins (drums). The album includes Wright’s originals like Mr. Soul and standards with bluesy and gospel foundations. The music is soul jazz with hard-bop elements, with Wright’s piano warm and vibrant, and the rhythm section providing a pulsing foundation. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its crystalline sound, capturing Chicago’s soulfulness. “Mr. Soul” is a vibrant record, showcasing Wright’s soul-jazz talent.
John Wright (born 1934) was an American jazz pianist, a vibrant figure in Chicago’s scene. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, and raised in Chicago, he began playing piano in his youth, inspired by gospel music and blues. In the 1950s, Wright became part of Chicago’s jazz scene, blending hard bop with bluesy and soul-jazz elements. His style featured a melodic, soulful delivery and rhythmic energy, making him a favorite in local clubs. Wright recorded several albums for Prestige Records, including South Side Soul, which highlight his connection to Chicago traditions. Later, he taught, sharing his craftsmanship.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Our Waltz (Burton-Rose) 6:05
2. Blue Prelude (Bishop-Jenkins) 5:17
3. What’s New (Burke-Haggart) 4:46
4. Everything’s Gonna Work Out Fine (Traditional) 4:03
Side Two:
1. Mr. Soul (Esmond Edwards) 4:43
2. Shake (John Wright) 3:53
3. Strut (Davis-Sherman-Wright) 4:56
4. Now Hang In There (John Wright) 4:58
Personnel:
The John Wright Trio
John Wright (piano), Wendell Roberts (bass), Walter Perkins, Jr. (drums).
Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder Studios in Englewood Cliff, New Jersey, April 10, 1962
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