Search - Hampton Hawes :: Trio 2

A Near-Masterpiece by a Brilliant Pianist

Paul A. Tatara | New York, NY USA | 11/29/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I'm amazed that no one else has been moved to review this wonderful album! Hampton Hawes has been unjustly under-appreciated by many jazz fans because he had the misfortune of playing on the West Coast when many of the top bebop artists were populating New York City. Hawes had the technical facility and lightening-quick imagination of Bud Powell, but with a sure, pronounced sense of bluesy swing that Powell sometimes neglected in favor of a darker sort of intensity. "This is Hampton Hawes" is a hugely enjoyable work that bristles with humor and unbelievable energy. Any of Hawes' albums from the 1950s are well worth your time and money, but this is a personal favorite. This guy was one of the greatest piano players who ever lived, and this album is one of his peak achievements. If I could, I'd give it four and a half stars, because it really is that close to being one of the key piano trio recordings of all time. And I listen to tons of them."

Underrated Yes

M. C. REED | West Malvern, Worcs. United Kingdom | 08/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I want to agree with the above review and to put in a plea for someone to please release on CD the "Great American Music Hall" album which I have worn out in vinyl.. It has the amazing work Status of Maceo which if you ever hear it you will not forget. Wrote to Concord but they did not reply. Hawes was a superb jazzman and as far as I know this album has never been released on CD."