PHOTO: CHRIS BRYCE | The Hammond organ—specifically the Hammond B-3, or C-3—has a long musical history. But it’s not for everyone; it’s a heavy machine that often finds itself in need of some regular repair and constant maintenance. However, when coupled with a Leslie speaker, the sound of a Hammond organ is difficult to match; its sonorous quality and authoritative heft make it unmistakable in many of what are probably some of your favorite recordings.
Adam Scone is a Hammond organ devotee, he’s made the commitment necessary to become one of the 21st century’s notable users. He’s long been associated with the instrument and has played in jazz and boogaloo legend Lou Donaldson’s band at the Village Vanguard and the Blue Note in New York City. Scone has also shared the stage and recorded with countless others, performing on over 50 albums and was selected as a Jazz Ambassador by Lincoln Center & the Kennedy Center for the Arts; an honor which took him to perform in over 35 different countries.
When he’s not working with his other band, the Sugarman Three, he’s branched out to form The Scone Cash Players; a group with a slightly more experimental and thoughtful range than the boogaloo and funk he’s often associated with. Their latest album on Daptone, Brooklyn to Brooklin, features a blend of the usual grooves, but also includes intriguing group vocal treatments that add a truly unique character to this release.
Join Adam and I as we discuss his life’s musical journey, the many musical masters he’s met along the way, the details behind his latest album and, of course, the good people who help him load out his 400 pound Hammond organ at the end of his gigs.
Evan Toth is a songwriter, professional musician, educator, radio host, avid record collector, and hi-fi aficionado. Toth hosts and produces The Evan Toth Show and TVD Radar on WFDU, 89.1 FM. Follow him at the usual social media places and visit his website.
