Duke Ellington & Coleman Hawkins - Duke Ellington Meets Coleman Hawkins (1962) CD Rip

This album documents a remarkable meeting between Duke Ellington and Coleman Hawkins, two towering figures in jazz history whose collaboration bridges the swing era with more modern improvisational approaches. The recording features Ellington not only as a composer but also as a pianist leading a tightly integrated ensemble that includes key members of his orchestra alongside Hawkins’ powerful tenor saxophone voice. The repertoire consists primarily of Ellington compositions, each showcasing his sophisticated harmonic writing and distinctive orchestral colors in a smaller group context. Hawkins brings a deeply expressive, full-bodied tone that blends seamlessly with the ensemble while also adding a strong improvisational presence. Johnny Hodges, Harry Carney, and other Ellington sidemen contribute their signature timbres, reinforcing the classic Ellington sound. The rhythm section, anchored by Aaron Bell and Sam Woodyard, provides a steady swing foundation throughout. The result is a concise yet highly expressive session that highlights both Ellington’s compositional mastery and Hawkins’ influential saxophone style within a cohesive jazz framework.

Tracklist:
1. Limbo Jazz
2. Mood Indigo
3. Ray Charles' Place
4. Wanderlust
5. You Dirty Dog
6. Self-Portrait (Of the Bean)
7. The Jeep Is Jumpin'
8. The Ricitic

Personnel :
Duke Ellington - piano
Coleman Hawkins - tenor saxophone
Johnny Hodges - alto saxophone
Harry Carney - baritone saxophone, bass clarinet
Lawrence Brown - trombone
Ray Nance - cornet, violin
Aaron Bell - bass
Sam Woodyard - drums