CiTR

The name Johnny Lytle may not be a household word but he was a very well respected player of the vibraphone. Like one of his mentors, Lionel Hampton, Lytle began his career as a drummer then switched to vibes. His two greatest influences were Lionel Hampton and Milt Jackson. Hampton called Johnny Lytle "the best vibist in the world today" and Milt Jackson said that Johnny had "the fastest hands in the business". Lytle spurned offers from major labels as he did not wish to be dictated to musically and stuck with the independents. He recorded for Jazzland and Riverside, Solid State and Muse. He also preferred to work in small clubs in ghetto neighborhoods. He was born in Springfield, Ohio on October 13, 1932 and died there in on December 15, 1995. He was so well respected and loved in his hometown that there is a street named for him "Johnny Lytle Avenue".
Tonight's Feature is a rare recording for the Jazzland label called "Nice and Easy-The Soulful Vibes of Johnny Lytle" He appears here with an all-star group with "The Little Giant", tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin on all but one of the seven tunes, a mix of standards and original compositions by the members of the group. The rhythm section is stellar with Bobby Timmons on piano, Sam Jones on bass and Louis Hayes on drums. Those of you who are familiar with Cannonball Adderley's great band will remember this rhythm section. All in all this is one of Johnny Lytle's finest recorded moments so sit back, relax and enjoy "Nice and Easy".