The Johny Louis Trio - The In Crowd (2012)

Hard soulful grooves from an obscure little combo – that of west coast pianist Johnny Louis, working here on a set that's clearly designed to challenge the 60s fame of the Ramsey Louis Trio! The record's got a very similar approach – highly rhythmic, very soulful piano lines that are heavy on the left hand – which fits perfectly with the album's jumping grooves – handled by a bassist and drummer who are definitely not as fluid as Eldee Young and Redd Holt – but who more than make up for that fact with a lot of drive and enthusiasm! Titles include "Cherry Pie", "Big Talk", "The Lunch Bunch", "Blues For Me", "Lonesome Me", "You Know I Love You", and "Rock Me Baby".