Smith last recorded for Blue Note 45 years ago, and he still retains the effortless soul that was that label’s trademark. But on this album, he distills that soulful essence, jiggles the Hammond’s drawbars and gives it a joyful makeover. And with two drummers on most tracks, and guest spots from pianist Robert Glasper and saxophonist Joe Lovano, it is the most accessible and contemporary-sounding Hammond-led album for a long time. Smith is such a complete organist that it’s only when you look at the album credits that it finally sinks in that there isn’t a bass player listed. And this on an album that ranges from the crunchy contemporary funk of ‘Talk About This’ and the nu- soul instrumental balladry of ‘For Heaven’s Sake’ to the cinematic lilt, flutes and sampled shouts of ‘African Suite’. Even the covers come at a slant. The theme of ‘Straight No Chaser’ is harmonised by guitarist Jonathan Kreisberg on the edge of dissonance while ‘My Favorite Things’ opens with funereal tones before romping through the changes. But what really makes this album such a standout release are the focused solos, nitty gritty grooves and a balanced set that ranges from heartbreak to joy.