Three Great Swing Saxophones: Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, Benny Carter. - sound recording reviews

National Review, March 5, 1990 by Ralph De Toledano

Three Great Swing Saxophones: Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, Benny Carter (BMG RCA-bluebird 9683-2-RB). Why these three great saxophones should be tied to the swing era is a question. Many of the selections included were recorded before the music went down and around. Hawkins, who made his reputation with the Fletcher Henderson Orchestra, revolutionized tenor-sax playing with his big tone and wonderful legato phrases.

Ben Webster came out of Kansas City and was known for the classical restraint of his playing as well as his inspired improvisation. Benny Carter played clarinet and trumpet as well as alto sax, and was a top-notch arranger. Here all three are shown at the height of their talents. Included is Hawkins's most famous solo, "Body and Soul."