Jazz Reunion
Candid, 2022
8/10
Two of jazz's finest jazz musicians ever, the tenor-saxophonist Coleman Hawkins and clarinetist Pee Wee Russell come together for this recording session that was their first in 32 years, and it includes Duke Ellington tunes, originals by Russell and standards.
“If I Could Be With You (One Hour Tonight)” opens the listen with Hawkins and Russell’s soulful presence being illuminated by Milt Hinton’s precise bass and Jo Jones’ subtle drumming, and “Tin Tin Deo” follows with Nat Pierce’s well timed piano helping make for a fuller presence that’s textured with much warmth.
“Mariooch” lands in the middle, and showcases just Russell’s skilled clarinet amid the cautious rhythm section, while “All Too Soon” sways with a very cozy, romantic spirit that resonates long after the music stops.
“28th And 8th” and “What Am I Here For?” exit the listen, where the former bops and shakes with a timeless energy that mixes the brass with the keys and drums charmingly, and the latter finishes with a dreamy, reflective demeanor that truly showcases the strength of Hawkins’ sax prowess.
Originally released in 1961, this reissue is an all analog remaster directly from the original tapes by Bernie Grundman, and the LP version comes with detailed liner notes from Nat Hentoff, the founder of Candid Records. There’s little doubt that Russell and Hawkins directly influenced countless other musicians to come, and here we are treated to some of their best work with superior sound quality.
Travels well with: Charles Mingus- Charles Mingus Presents Charles Mingus; Max Roach- We Insist!