Booker T. & The M.G.’s – Green Onions

Review

"Green Onions" by Booker T. & The M.G.'s epitomizes the quintessential sound of instrumental R&B and soul, highlighted by its distinctive use of the Hammond organ. The album, led by the iconic title track "Green Onions," remains influential decades after its initial release, exemplifying a groove that transcends time. The musicianship of the band is tight and cohesive, demonstrated across the album as the group weaves through tracks that showcase the individual and collective talent of its members—Booker T. Jones on the organ, Steve Cropper on guitar, Lewie Steinberg on bass, and Al Jackson on drums.

As the house band for Stax Records, Booker T. & The M.G.'s not only backed numerous notable artists but also laid down a foundation of what would be known as the Memphis soul sound. While the album sometimes faces criticism for its all-instrumental approach and perceived repetitiveness, it also contains definitive highlights such as "I Got a Woman" and "Mo' Onions." These tracks, among others, demonstrate the band's skill in creating deeply engaging instrumentals. Despite its simplicity, the album offers a compelling case for the sheer power of minimalist, blues-infused grooves in shaping the sound of an era. - Stephanie