Blues Wail: Coleman Hawkins Plays The Blues

Dive into the rich, soulful world of jazz with "Blues Wail: Coleman Hawkins Plays The Blues," a masterful collection of blues-infused tracks by the legendary Coleman Hawkins. Released in 1996, this album is a testament to Hawkins' enduring legacy as a pioneer of the tenor saxophone, featuring a blend of bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop that showcases his versatility and mastery of the genre.

The album spans nine tracks, each a gem in its own right, with a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes. From the sultry "Juicy Fruit" to the poignant "Blues For Ron," every song is a journey through Hawkins' musical evolution. The tracks were recorded between 1958 and 1959, with some originally released on other albums, offering a retrospective look at Hawkins' prolific career.

"Blues Wail" features Hawkins alongside an impressive ensemble of jazz greats, including Barry Galbraith on guitar, Oscar Pettiford on bass, and Jo Jones on drums. The collaboration with these talented musicians elevates the album, creating a rich tapestry of sound that highlights Hawkins' unique style and influence.

The album's standout tracks include "Blues For Tomorrow," a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Hawkins' ability to convey deep emotion through his saxophone, and "Stealin' The Bean," a lively, upbeat number that demonstrates his mastery of bebop. Each track is a testament to Hawkins' skill and innovation, making "Blues Wail" a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Coleman Hawkins or a newcomer to his music, "Blues Wail: Coleman Hawkins Plays The Blues" is an album that demands attention. It's a celebration of Hawkins' contributions to jazz, a showcase of his incredible talent, and a reminder of why he remains one of the most influential figures in the history of the genre.

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.