Search - Coleman Hawkins :: Body & Soul Revisited

Robert S. (stoner2) from LOS ANGELES, CA
Reviewed on 11/13/2009...

To preserve and restore should be a sub title of these 50's tracks.
Orgiinal Decca recordings which was never "cutting edge" technologically. GRP sub text is Body & Soul Revisited. grp did a great job.

A "Must Have" For That Well-Rounded Jazz Collection

mjaye | Scottown, Ohio USA | 03/29/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Coleman Hawkins In The 50's -- Body And Soul Revisited delivers an exciting sampling of the Hawk's wonders. These beautifully remastered recordings from his Decca years showcase his mastery of the tenor sax and genious with improvisation and phrasing -- and makes it sound effortless. This has also become a favorite of my teenage daughter, who readily recognizes the influence of Coleman Hawkins on today's Jazz scene."

Quick! Before it disappears!

Johnny Hodges | Clark Fork, ID United States | 11/10/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A pity that GRP has abandoned some of its most brilliant CDs in their "Original Decca Recordings" library. All the ones I have distinguish themselves in both care of track selection and amazing sound quality. This one really rounds out any Coleman Hawkins collection. The first ten numbers feature Coleman's big sound in a somewhat commercial setting playing mostly standards with large groups, many with strings. While I was somewhat put off at first by these "nice" arrangements, I've become quite fond of the sound of Hawk's powerful tenor rising out of these otherwise dignified blend.



Next are five swinging tunes with Cozy Cole's Big Seven, featuring spirited backup by Rex Stewart on trumpet and Tyree Glenn on trombone. Then things get even jazzier with a quartet featuring the fabulous Hank Jones on piano. The seven minute "Man I Love" solo contiuously builds excitement, "Foolin' Around" is a gem of a short solo with no accompanyment, and a lovely "Time on My Hands". The album winds up with three feauting the Tony Scott (clarinet) All Stars, featuring Tommy Flanagan on piano and Jimmy Knepper on 'bone.



I like to start the day with this CD, easing into the day with the slower orchesteral numbers and getting my juices going as the CD goes into its more lively second half. The variety of styles displays Hawkins' broad skills and keeps the sound fresh as you listen to the whole 75 minutes non-stop.



Also highly recommended from this Decca series: Tidal Wave and (also disappearing) Spinnin' the Webb."