Hawkins + Eldridge + Gillespie + Stitt - Konserthuset, Stockholm Sweden May 20th. 1958 - Coleman Hawkins

Coleman Hawkins brings together a phenomenal ensemble in the captivating album, Hawkins + Eldridge + Gillespie + Stitt - Konserthuset, Stockholm Sweden May 20th. 1958. Released on 27 October 2023 via Lantower Records, this 33-minute jazz extravaganza is a masterclass in bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop, showcasing the incredible talents of its legendary performers.

Recorded live at the Konserthuset in Stockholm, Sweden on 20 May 1958, this album has been meticulously restored in 2023, breathing new life into the original recordings. The tracklist is a testament to the group's versatility, featuring timeless classics such as 'Azure', 'Sometimes I'm Happy', and 'Stardust', alongside the energetic 'A Night In Tunisia' and the soulful 'Wee Baby Blues'.

With Coleman Hawkins at the helm, this album is a must-listen for fans of jazz and its many sub-genres. The combination of Hawkins' saxophone prowess, paired with the exceptional talents of his fellow musicians, creates a truly unforgettable listening experience. Released on Lantower Records, Hawkins + Eldridge + Gillespie + Stitt - Konserthuset, Stockholm Sweden May 20th. 1958 is an essential addition to any jazz collection, offering a unique glimpse into the genre's rich history and the incredible artistry of Coleman Hawkins and his contemporaries.

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk" or "Bean," was a titan of the tenor saxophone in the world of jazz. Born in 1904, Hawkins was one of the first musicians to elevate the tenor saxophone to a prominent position in jazz, transforming it from a novelty into a cornerstone of the genre. His virtuosic and emotionally rich playing style, characterized by its vibrato and arpeggiated improvisations, influenced a vast array of musicians, from his contemporaries like Chu Berry and Ben Webster to later legends such as John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Hawkins' career spanned several decades and multiple jazz styles, from the big band era of swing to the pioneering days of bebop. His innovative approach to improvisation and his deep musical knowledge made him a consistently modern and influential figure. Whether you're diving into his early recordings or exploring his later works, Coleman Hawkins' music offers a journey through the evolution of jazz, showcasing his enduring mastery and creativity.