Dive into the world of hard bop and bebop with Hampton Hawes' "Late Night Session, Vol. 1," a captivating album released by Golden Ear Music on August 18, 2021. This collection of seven tracks, originally recorded on the night of November 12, 1956, at Contemporary's studio in Los Angeles, offers a glimpse into the genius of one of jazz's most celebrated pianists.
Hampton Hawes, known for his virtuosic technique and soulful playing, delivers an impressive performance on this album. The tracks, ranging from the lively "I'll Remember April" to the bluesy "Blue'n Boogie," showcase Hawes' versatility and mastery of the jazz idiom. With a runtime of just over 42 minutes, the album is a concise yet powerful journey through the sounds of 1950s jazz.
Produced by Lester Koenig, "Late Night Session, Vol. 1" is the first of three albums captured in a single, marathon recording session that began at 9 PM and ended at 8:30 AM the following morning. The energy and spontaneity of that all-night session are palpable in the music, making this album a true gem for jazz enthusiasts.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Hampton Hawes or a newcomer to his music, "Late Night Session, Vol. 1" is an essential addition to your jazz collection. The album's blend of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz elements, along with Hawes' exceptional playing, makes it a standout release that continues to resonate with audiences today.
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