Customer Reviews

Sirius

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

i've seen this album both ripped and praised throughout the years in various music books. back around 1979, my first rolling stone record guide gave it a 5 star rating (their highest rating). my copy (3rd edition) of all music guide to jazz gives it a one star rating (their lowest rating), calling it rather sad (mr hawkins performances being hindered by failing health). so who is right? well, if you remove soul from the equation, deny the spirit of a genius, and look merely at technique (a sort of "american idol" approach to music), then mr hawkins is no match here for the powerhouse of a young man that he was on his instrument back in the 20's, 30's, and 40's. BUT, if you take into account the seasoned spirit of a soul who spent a lifetime acquainted with the magic and heart of his craft, then this is a beautiful, beautiful album. i have listened to this thing with a music lovers ecstasy during dozens and dozens of nights over the years, and still am in love with the sound. his gorgeous sugary tone is like a drug on my ears. this is simply one of the most moving ballad albums of jazz playing that i have heard. forget technique. listen. there's a lifetime of love for jazz to be heard in mr hawkins every breathe as it becomes one with his saxophone. completely moving. great stuff. don't let any fool hung-up on technique tell you otherwise.

This recording from December, 1966 may have been the last one on which Hawk was still in top form. He plays this program of standards with wonderful sensitivity, inventiveness and tone. Accompanied by trio of Barry Harris, Bob Cranshaw and Eddie Locke.

I agree wholeheartedly with "Fluffy" in saying that I have almost all of Coleman's CD's and I enjoyed this as much as any other. The soothing sound of his saxophone along with Barry Harris' piano makes for a wonderful combination, especially since the choice of songs is superb. The balance of the instruments in stereo is beautiful. My recommendation is to buy it. I had hesitated in doing so because of the All Music Guide review but Mr. Fluffy convinced me to give it a try. I continue to be thankful through many future playings.