The first tenor to make an indelible mark on the jazz scene, Hawk never lost his touch over more than four decades of recording and performing. This definitive single-CD collection from RCA contains 19 tracks recorded between 1939 and 1956. Contrasting versions of the title track highlight Hawk's ability to move with the times.
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Pres and Teddy Lester Young and Teddy Wilson 1956 [Verve]
This record makes a mockery of those who say Lester Young had lost the plot after WWII. Here Verve's Norman Granz can take credit for reuniting the great tenor with pianist Teddy Wilson. While there are no real surprises, the playing is superb as the quartet works its way through a nice mix of swing standards and bluesy blowin'.
Made about the same time as the classic Saxophone Colossus, but with a completely different line-up. John Coltrane is the extra tenor on the classic 12-minute title track (the only record on which he appears with Rollins) and Red Garland plays piano. Not surprisingly, the Paul Chambers/Philly Joe Jones rhythm section is absolutely faultless.
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Saxophone Colossus Sonny Rollins 1956 [Prestige]
New kid on the block Rollins was an original from the start. This early record is a jazz masterpiece. Classic original compositions 'St. Thomas' and 'Blue Seven' bookend three other fine tunes, highlighted by drummer Max Roach and pianist Tommy Flanagan faultlessly plying their crafts. Overall, there isn't a wasted moment in sight.
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The Hawk Flies High Coleman Hawkins 1957 [Riverside]
A comeback of sorts for the great tenor, which sees him working with some hotshot young guns - including trumpeter Idrees Sulieman and trombonist J J Johnson. Playing with artists decades his junior, Hawk more than holds his own - especially on longer tracks 'Juicy Fruit' and 'Sanctity'. The other standout performer is pianist Hank Jones.
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Gerry Mulligan Meets Ben Webster Gerry Mulligan & Ben Webster 1959 [Verve]
Aside from being a giant of the baritone sax, Mulligan was a deft arranger of music. He rose to stardom in the early-50s while paired with Chet Baker, but a drug bust put him out of business until his release from jail in 1954. Here he teams with tenor Ben Webster to produce a minor classic. Avoid versions with excessive alternate takes.
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Boss Tenor Gene Ammons 1960 [Prestige]
Boss Tenor is the pick of the Prestige albums made by "Jug" Ammons in his prime - recorded during a brief period between two stints in prison for drug-related problems. A capable hard bop tenor with a distinctive tone - here he fronts a proficient rhythm section featuring pianist Tommy Flanagan and Ray Baretto on congas.
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Soul Station Hank Mobley 1960 [Blue Note]
While not recognised as one of the masters of the tenor, Mobley was nevertheless a great showman. This exuberant hard bop outing finds him at this best, with outstanding support coming from drummer Art Blakey, bassist Paul Chambers and Wynton Kelly on piano. Mobley sandwiches four originals between two intuitively selected standards.
