Bean And The Boys

Coleman Hawkins' 'Bean And The Boys' is a captivating compilation of 19 tracks, released in 1993 on the Prestige label. This album showcases Hawkins' versatility as a jazz musician, with a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, taking listeners on a journey through various styles, including jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop.

The album features a mix of tracks from different recording sessions, including the 'Walter "Foots" Thomas All-Stars' recording, which contributes the first four tracks. These songs may not be typical of the bebop genre, but they demonstrate Hawkins' ability to adapt and excel in different musical settings.

As a renowned tenor saxophonist, Coleman Hawkins has had a profound influence on the development of jazz. His unique playing style, which departed from the "mooing" and "rubbery belches" prevalent in earlier tenor saxophone solos, has been widely acclaimed. Throughout his career, Hawkins has collaborated with numerous notable musicians, including Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, and Max Roach.

The title track, 'Bean And The Boys', is a notable bebop composition written by Hawkins in 1948. This song, a contrafact of 'Lover Come Back to Me', has been covered by many artists, including Barry Harris, Bill Mays, and Art Blakey. The album also features other standout tracks, such as 'In The Hush Of The Night', 'Out To Lunch', and 'I Mean You', showcasing Hawkins' mastery of his craft.

With 'Bean And The Boys', Coleman Hawkins delivers a remarkable collection of songs that highlight his innovative spirit and dedication to his art. This album is a must-listen for fans of jazz and bebop, offering a unique glimpse into the career of a legendary musician.

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk" or "Bean," was a titan of the tenor saxophone in the world of jazz. Born in 1904, Hawkins was one of the first musicians to elevate the tenor saxophone to a prominent position in jazz, transforming it from a novelty into a cornerstone of the genre. His virtuosic and emotionally rich playing style, characterized by its vibrato and arpeggiated improvisations, influenced a vast array of musicians, from his contemporaries like Chu Berry and Ben Webster to later legends such as John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Hawkins' career spanned several decades and multiple jazz styles, from the big band era of swing to the pioneering days of bebop. His innovative approach to improvisation and his deep musical knowledge made him a consistently modern and influential figure. Whether you're diving into his early recordings or exploring his later works, Coleman Hawkins' music offers a journey through the evolution of jazz, showcasing his enduring mastery and creativity.

Album Details

Tracks

About Coleman Hawkins

Best vinyl LP prices!