Bean Stalkin'

Coleman Hawkins' captivating album, Bean Stalkin', is a masterful showcase of the legendary jazz musician's skill and artistry. Released on 1 January 1988 via the esteemed Pablo label, this 46-minute collection of live recordings is a testament to Hawkins' enduring legacy.

Featuring a mix of jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop, Bean Stalkin' takes listeners on a sonic journey through some of the genre's most beloved standards. The album kicks off with three tracks recorded live in Zurich - the titular 'Bean Stalkin'', 'Indian Summer', and 'Stompin' at the Savoy' - each demonstrating Hawkins' unique ability to breathe new life into classic compositions. The Zurich recordings are followed by 'Crazy Rhythm', another standout track that highlights the saxophonist's technical prowess.

The album's latter half features two tracks captured live in Paris: a rousing rendition of 'Take The "A" Train' and a soulful interpretation of 'Indiana (Back Home Again In Indiana)'. Throughout Bean Stalkin', Coleman Hawkins' expressive playing and the spontaneity of the live setting combine to create an unforgettable listening experience. With its impeccable musicianship and timeless appeal, Bean Stalkin' is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, and a poignant reminder of Coleman Hawkins' status as one of the genre's all-time greats.

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk," was a pioneering American jazz tenor saxophonist whose innovative style left an indelible mark on the genre. Born Coleman Randolph Hawkins, he began his musical journey on the piano at age five, later switching to the cello and finally settling on the tenor saxophone at nine. Hawkins is celebrated as one of the first prominent jazz musicians on his instrument, revolutionizing the tenor saxophone's role in jazz. His virtuosic, arpeggiated approach to improvisation and rich, emotional tone influenced a generation of tenor players, including the likes of Ben Webster, Charlie Barnet, and Don Byas. Hawkins' career spanned several decades, from the swing era of the big band days to the development of bebop in the 1940s. His discography is vast and varied, featuring iconic albums like "The Hawk Swings" and "The High And Mighty Hawk," showcasing his versatility and mastery of the saxophone. Hawkins' legacy endures, making him a cornerstone of jazz history.