The Hawk had long since feathered nests like these, remarkable bands of musicians pulled in close to create timeless art. Recorded in 1961, the groove is indeed relaxed but with Ron Carter on bass and Kenny Burrell on guitar, the Hawk more than anybody knew how to luxuriate in its elegant sparkle. Unlike the 1959 classic Very Saxy, where the pressure of the moment found Hawk hurtling out some of his most magnificent cragged utterances, his tone here is still full (when wasn't it?) but has returned to an earlier smoothness.

Having followed closely his recorded career throughout the 1930's, 40's and 50's, I'd fallen into the assumption that next to those decades of brilliance the 60's had nothing to match it with; this recording proves how wrong that assumption was. Ballad readings though these primarily are, the colourful, harmonic melancholy exuding from the tenor contrasts well with the bands inherent sense of swing. With crisp, alert drumming from Andrew Cyrille (then just 21) and elegant sounding bass and piano lines alongside Burrell's rich and clear guitar chords, this was the kind of dream team rhythm section that Coleman always got a kick out of having around him. The result is yet another gem from the Hawkins treasure chest.


01. I'll Never Be The Same  
02. When Day Is Done  
03. Under A Blanket Of Blue  
04. More Than You Know  
05. Moonglow  
06. Just A Gigolo   
07. Speak Low