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," 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.