Louis Smith Quintet - Prancin'

Repress of a classic SteepleChase LP from 1979 by the Louis Smith Quintet. The trumpeter is joined by a hugely impressive group that includes saxophonist Junior Cook, pianist Roland Hanna, bassist Sames Jones and drummer Billy Hart.

Prancin' confirms what some listeners have known for many years - that Louis Smith is among the most engaging trumpet soloists in jazz. Thankfully, the opportunity to savour his mature, well rounded style is no longer being denied to us. - Jazz Journal, 1979

Smith's phrases, poised in their intricacy, pulse with a warmth that transcends idiom or school. Nothing sounds forced, yet he swings masterfully, building chorus upon chorus with a decisive confidence based on faultless technique and expert knowledge of this harmonically demanding style. - Melody Maker, 1979