The Mellow Sound Of Coleman Hawkins

Dive into the rich, velvety tones of Coleman Hawkins' "The Mellow Sound Of Coleman Hawkins," a timeless collection of jazz masterpieces released in 2009. This album is a testament to Hawkins' legendary status as a tenor saxophonist, offering a blend of jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop that will captivate any jazz enthusiast.

Spanning over an hour and fourteen minutes, this album features fifteen tracks that showcase Hawkins' versatility and mastery of his instrument. From the sultry "Under A Blanket Of Blue" to the instrumental elegance of "Poor Butterfly" and "At Dawning," each song is a journey through the evolution of jazz. Standout tracks like "Just A Gigolo" and "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" highlight Hawkins' ability to infuse classic tunes with his unique style, while instrumental pieces like "For You, For Me, For Evermore" and "Trouble Is A Man" demonstrate his prowess in creating atmospheric, melodic compositions.

The album is a beautiful blend of Hawkins' signature sound and the timeless appeal of jazz standards. Whether you're a longtime fan of Coleman Hawkins or new to his music, "The Mellow Sound Of Coleman Hawkins" is an essential addition to any jazz collection. The remastered tracks, including "More Than You Know," ensure that the music sounds as fresh and vibrant today as it did when it was first recorded. This album is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of Coleman Hawkins' enduring legacy in the world of jazz.

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.