Jimmy McGriff – Outside Looking In

Jimmy McGriff – Outside Looking In

Outside Looking In is a superb jazz-funk album from legendary Hammond organ master Jimmy McGriff. Released during the golden era of jazz-funk, the album perfectly showcases McGriff's unmistakable organ sound, combining soulful grooves, blues influences, and dynamic improvisation with a tight, hard-swinging rhythm section.

Known as one of the finest Hammond B-3 players in jazz, McGriff effortlessly bridges the worlds of soul jazz, funk, and blues. Outside Looking In features infectious rhythms, expressive solos, and rich instrumental interplay, delivering a collection that is equally suited to dedicated jazz listeners and fans of groove-driven instrumental music.

The album opens with the expansive title track Outside Looking In, setting the tone with deep funk rhythms and McGriff's signature organ work. Other highlights include the hard-grooving Dust Pan, the lively Playland, the Latin-tinged Tapioca, the bluesy Midnight Boogie, and the swinging closer Walkin' Willie. Throughout the record, McGriff's warm Hammond tone and effortless improvisation remain the focal point, supported by exceptional musicianship from his accompanying band.

An outstanding example of 1970s soul jazz and jazz-funk, Outside Looking In is an essential addition to any collection, highlighting Jimmy McGriff at the peak of his creative powers.

Tracklist:

Side A

1. Outside Looking In – 5:53
2. Dust Pan – 6:33
3. Playland – 6:46

Side B

1. Tapioca – 6:06
2. Midnight Boogie – 5:21
3. Walkin' Willie – 6:30