Coleman Hawkins - Hawkins! Alive At The Village Gate (Japanese Verve Vinyl LP)

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Coleman Hawkins - Hawkins! Alive At The Village Gate Vinyl LP - Japanese Verve Reissue

The father of the tenor saxophone captured live in one of New York's most beloved jazz venues, Hawkins! Alive At The Village Gate presents Coleman Hawkins in prime form during two nights in August 1962. This 1985 Japanese reissue on Verve, manufactured by Polydor K.K., preserves four extended performances that showcase why Hawkins remained a commanding presence decades after revolutionising his instrument in the 1920s and 1930s.

Backed by the impeccable rhythm section of pianist Tommy Flanagan, bassist Major Holley, and drummer Ed Locke, Hawkins demonstrates the robust tone, harmonic sophistication, and rhythmic authority that made him a bridge between swing and modern jazz. His approach to the tenor saxophone, with its huge sound and vertical harmonic thinking, influenced virtually every saxophonist who followed, from Lester Young to John Coltrane.

The four tracks balance standards and unexpected repertoire choices. "All The Things You Are" receives a masterful reading that highlights Hawkins' ability to wring new meaning from well-worn material. "Josh Fit The Battle Of Jericho", the spiritual reimagined as a swinging jazz vehicle, showcases Hawkins' playful side and his ability to honour tradition while making it contemporary. "Mack The Knife", already a jazz standard by 1962, gets the full Hawkins treatment with his characteristic gruff eloquence, while "Talk Of The Town" closes the album with romantic balladry that demonstrates the tenderness within Hawkins' powerful sound.

Tommy Flanagan, one of the most tasteful and supportive pianists in jazz, provides elegant accompaniment throughout, while Holley and Locke maintain a buoyant, swinging foundation. The live setting captures the interaction and spontaneity that studio recordings sometimes miss, with the Village Gate audience responding to particularly inspired moments.

This Japanese pressing offers excellent sound quality that captures both the intimacy of the club setting and the power of Hawkins' playing. For fans of classic tenor saxophone and those interested in the continuum of jazz history, this is essential listening.