Planet Jazz - Jazz Budget Series - Coleman Hawkins

Dive into the timeless world of jazz with Coleman Hawkins' "Planet Jazz - Jazz Budget Series," a 1997 compilation that encapsulates the essence of Hawkins' virtuosity. This album, released under RCA Victor, is a treasure trove of 16 tracks spanning a rich 52 minutes, offering a blend of jazz genres including bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop. Hawkins, a titan in the swing and big band bop scenes, delivers an exquisite performance that showcases his mastery of the saxophone.

The album features a mix of classic tracks like "Body and Soul" and "I Love Paris," each remastered to perfection, alongside lesser-known gems such as "Spotlite" and "How Strange." The inclusion of collaborations with legends like Lionel Hampton and Benny Carter adds an extra layer of depth and richness to the collection. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "Planet Jazz - Jazz Budget Series" offers a captivating journey through the evolution of jazz, highlighting Hawkins' enduring influence and innovation.

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.