Four Classic Albums

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of jazz with Coleman Hawkins' "Four Classic Albums," a meticulously curated collection that spans the legendary tenor saxophonist's illustrious career. This 2CD set, released on March 28, 2025, by AVID Jazz, features four seminal works: "The Hawk in Hi-Fi," "Soul," "At Ease with Coleman Hawkins," and "The Hawk Relaxes." Each album has been digitally remastered to ensure the highest audio quality, allowing fans and newcomers alike to experience Hawkins' mastery anew.

Spanning a rich tapestry of styles within the jazz genre, from bebop and cool jazz to hard bop, this collection offers a comprehensive journey through Hawkins' innovative contributions to music. The album kicks off with the sultry tones of "Body and Soul" and "Little Girl Blue" from "The Hawk in Hi-Fi," showcasing Hawkins' signature smooth and soulful playing. "Soul" delves deeper into his bluesy roots with tracks like "Soul Blues" and "Sunday Mornin'," while "At Ease with Coleman Hawkins" provides a more relaxed and introspective atmosphere with songs like "For You for Me Forevermore" and "Mighty Lak a Rose."

"The Hawk Relaxes" rounds out the collection with a series of mellow, late-night jazz standards, including "I'll Never Be the Same" and "Speak Low." Each track is a testament to Hawkins' versatility and enduring influence on the jazz landscape. The set is complete with original artwork, detailed liner notes, and personnel information, providing a rich context for the music.

With a total duration of 2 hours and 41 minutes, "Four Classic Albums" is a treasure trove for jazz enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the artistry of Coleman Hawkins. Whether you're a longtime admirer or a curious newcomer, this collection is an essential addition to any jazz library, celebrating the genius of one of the genre's true pioneers.

28 maart 2025

2025 AVID Jazz

About Coleman Hawkins

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.