Everybody Likes Hampton Hawes

Dive into the world of cool jazz and bebop with "Everybody Likes Hampton Hawes," a captivating album by the legendary pianist Hampton Hawes. Released in 2000 under the CoolNote label, this collection is a testament to Hawes' mastery of hard bop and bebop, offering a rich and dynamic listening experience.

The album features a stellar lineup of tracks, including "Somebody Loves Me," "The Sermon," and "Body and Soul," each showcasing Hawes' virtuosic piano playing and deep musical intuition. With a running time of just over 43 minutes, "Everybody Likes Hampton Hawes" is a concise yet powerful journey through the jazz greats of the mid-20th century.

Hampton Hawes, known for his innovative approach to jazz, brings his unique style to this album, making it a standout in his discography. The album's reissue in 2000, originally recorded in 1956, ensures that new generations of jazz enthusiasts can appreciate Hawes' timeless contributions to the genre. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate with its blend of technical brilliance and soulful expression.

Hampton Hawes was a pioneering American jazz pianist, celebrated for his distinctive blend of bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz. Born in Los Angeles in 1928, Hawes began his musical journey at a young age, playing with legendary musicians like Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, and Charles Mingus. His career took off in the 1950s, with a series of acclaimed albums on Contemporary Records, showcasing his unique interpretations and powerful touch. Hawes' music is characterized by its bluesy bebop style, with a strong and urgent rhythm that breathes life into every note. Beyond his musical achievements, Hawes' life story is one of resilience and redemption. His memoir, "Raise Up Off Me," offers a candid look at his struggles with addiction and his eventual pardon by President Kennedy in 1963. Hawes' legacy endures as a defining figure of West Coast jazz, leaving behind a rich discography that continues to inspire jazz enthusiasts worldwide.