John Patton (July 12, 1935 – March 19, 2002) was an American jazz, blues and R&B pianist and organist, often known by his nickname, Big John Patton.
Patton was one of the most in-demand organists during the golden era of the Hammond B-3 organs between 1963 and 1970. He was a major figure in the development of the funk and blues-rooted jazz style known as soul jazz and is considered a roots player who inspired the acid jazz movement. He recorded extensively for Blue Note, and performed or collaborated with Lloyd Price, Grant Green, and Lou Donaldson. Patton had a lower profile in the 1970s but enjoyed a comeback in the 1980s and ’90s, often in collaboration with saxophonist John Zorn. His music evolved to incorporate modal and free jazz. (by wikipedia)
Most John Patton albums are hard-driving, edgy soul-jazz and funk, and the title of Accent on the Blues makes the record seem like it would be no different than his other sessions. Of course, that isn’t the case. Accent on the Blues is among the most atmospheric music Patton has ever made. While it stops short of being free, it’s hardly funky soul-jazz, and that may disappoint some fans of his rip-roaring style. Nevertheless, the album is a rewarding listen, primarliy because it displays a more reflective side of his talent, demonstrating that he can hold his own among the likes of guitarist James Blood Ulmer and saxophonist Marvin Cabell. (by Stephen Thomas Erlewine)
Not the standard album from Patton. He has shown that he can crank out awesome soul jazz, as his earlier albums demonstrate. This one is more abstract, which adds to its appeal. But he can still get into a groove, such as on Village Lee, which has a nice contribution from Marvin Cabell (who sounds like he could have used a few more rehearsals on Freedom Jazz Dance). James Ulmer is completely in tune with what Patton is doing and sounds great here. (by Drew Fields)
Personnel:
Marvin Cabell (saxophone, flute)
Big John Patton (organ)
James Blood Ulmer (guitar)
Leroy Williams (drums)
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George Coleman (saxophone on 08. – 10.)
Tracklist:
01. Rakin’ And Scrapin’ (Mabern) 10.08
02. Freedom Jazz Dance (Harris) 4.46
03. Captain Nasty (Cabell) 5.08
04. Village Lee (Cabell) 7.25
05. Lite Hit (Cabell) 6.22
06. Don’t Let Me Lose This Dream (Franklin/White) 6.56
07. Lite Hit (alternate take) (Cabell) 6.07
08. Buddy Boy (Patton) 6.39
09. 2 J (Patton) 7.48
10. Sweet Pea (Patton) 5.23
John Patton (July 12, 1935 – March 19, 2002)
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