Ultimate Coleman Hawkins

Coleman Hawkins' 'Ultimate Coleman Hawkins' is a masterful compilation that showcases the legendary jazz musician's incredible talent and versatility. Released on 1 January 1998 via the esteemed Verve label, this hour-long collection of 18 tracks is a testament to Hawkins' enduring influence on the jazz scene.

With a career spanning multiple genres, including jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop, Coleman Hawkins' distinctive sound is on full display throughout this album. From the soulful 'Like Someone In Love' and 'I'm In The Mood For Love' to the upbeat 'Bean At The Met' and 'Cattin At Keynote', Hawkins' saxophone playing is characteristically expressive and emotive.

The album also features a range of other notable tracks, including 'Just One Of Those Things', 'Night And Day', and 'I Only Have Eyes For You', each demonstrating Hawkins' ability to interpret and reimagine classic songs in his own unique style. With its impressive tracklist and Hawkins' impeccable musicianship, 'Ultimate Coleman Hawkins' is a must-listen for fans of the genre and a fitting tribute to the artist's remarkable legacy.

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.