In A Mellow Tone

Coleman Hawkins' 'In A Mellow Tone' is a sublime jazz album, released on 1 January 1988 by Original Jazz Classics. This 50-minute masterpiece showcases Hawkins' versatility as he navigates through a range of genres, including jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop. The album features a diverse tracklist, comprising nine songs that highlight Hawkins' skill and artistry. From the soulful 'You Blew Out The Flame In My Heart' to the instrumental 'Then I'll Be Tired Of You', and the iconic 'In A Mellow Tone', each track demonstrates Hawkins' ability to craft memorable and emotive melodies.

Recorded during a period of great creativity for Hawkins, 'In A Mellow Tone' reflects the influence of his collaborations with other jazz legends, such as Duke Ellington and Sonny Rollins. The album also showcases Hawkins' willingness to experiment and evolve, as evident in his incorporation of bossa nova and John Coltrane's explorative style into his music.

With its unique blend of classic and contemporary styles, 'In A Mellow Tone' is a must-listen for fans of Coleman Hawkins and jazz enthusiasts alike. The album is available in various formats, including CD, LP, and cassette, and can be streamed or downloaded in high-quality on platforms such as Spotify and Qobuz. Whether you're a long-time fan of Hawkins or just discovering his music, 'In A Mellow Tone' is an album that is sure to delight and inspire, with its timeless sound and enduring appeal.

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.