Hawkins! Eldridge! Hodges! - Alive! At The Village Gate - Coleman Hawkins

"Hawkins! Eldridge! Hodges! - Alive! At The Village Gate" captures a historic moment in jazz history, featuring the legendary Coleman Hawkins alongside fellow greats Roy Eldridge and Johnny Hodges. Recorded live at the iconic Village Gate in New York City over two evenings in August 1962, this album is a thrilling journey through the rich tapestry of jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop.

The album kicks off with a free-flowing quartet session, showcasing Hawkins' masterful tenor saxophone playing. However, it's with the arrival of Eldridge and Hodges that the energy and excitement truly escalate. The trio's chemistry is palpable, as they navigate through classic tunes like "Satin Doll," "Perdido," and "Mack The Knife," each track a testament to their individual brilliance and collective prowess.

This live album is a rare opportunity to experience these jazz legends in their prime, performing in an intimate setting. The raw energy, improvisational genius, and sheer joy of live performance are all captured in this exceptional recording. Whether you're a longtime fan of Coleman Hawkins or new to his music, this album is a treasure trove of jazz history and a celebration of some of the genre's most influential figures. The album is a great addition to any jazz collection, offering over an hour of captivating performances that highlight the enduring legacy of these extraordinary musicians.

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.