Jazz Legends
2003
The King Of The Tenor Sax: 1929-1943
About This Album
Outstanding! A chronologically arranged core sample of the Hawk's progress from a notably able improviser to a fully developed archetypal saxophonist ready to assist with the birth and development of bebop. There are really four chapters in Hawkins' evolution. First come the adventures of a young sideman busily gigging throughout the 1920s, who gradually shone as a star of the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra but also played bass saxophone behind Ma Rainey. Chapter two finds the internationally acclaimed master of the tenor taking himself to Europe during the 1930s and returning with more sheer power and facility than ever. The rest of Hawkins' career would count as chapters three and four, spanning the years 1944 through 1966. More than two decades of maturity gave the world that marvelous autumnal Hawkins, always insistent upon being up to date, eventually sitting in with Monk, Coltrane, Max Roach, and Abbey Lincoln. This collection focuses upon chapter two, or Hawkins' early middle period. These historical performances are invariably exciting and fruitful. Hearing Hawkins percolating alongside Red McKenzie's buzzing paper and comb is an incongruous delight, enhanced by the presence of Pee Wee Russell, Pops Foster, and Gene Krupa.
Track List (try tracks 6,16 and 17)

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