ProJazz.net

Down to Earth (subtitled The Ramsey Lewis Trio Plays Music from the Soil) is the fourth album by American jazz pianist Ramsey Lewis, recorded in 1958 and released on the EmArcy label.

The AllMusic review by Scott Yanow awarded the album 4 stars and stated:”This recording has the trio emphasizing folk songs and traditional melodies such as “Dark Eyes,” “Come Back to Sorrento,” “John Henry,” and “Billy Boy.” Their concise interpretations feature swinging solos by Lewis and respect for the melodies. The music (if not essential) is quite accessible while still being jazz oriented. Worth picking up.”

Track listing:
“Dark Eyes” (Traditional) – 2:28
“Come Back to Sorrento” (Traditional) – 3:10
“Soul Mist” (Ramsey Lewis) – 3:00
“John Henry” (Traditional) – 2:26
“Greensleeves” (Traditional) – 4:25
“We Blue It” (Eldee Young, Ramsey Lewis, Red Holt) – 5:01
“Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child” (Traditional) – 2:10
“Suzanne” (Traditional) – 3:15
“Billy Boy” (Traditional) – 2:37
“Decisions” (Eldee Young) – 2:06

Personnel:
Ramsey Lewis – piano
El Dee Young – bass
Issac “Red” Holt – drums

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Released: 1959
Recorded: November 6 and December 4, 1958
Studio: Ter Mar Recording Studios, Chicago
Label: EmArcy
MG 36150
Producer: Jack Tracy