js “Complete Live at the Bayou Club” combines the previous two separate LPs of this club date in 1959 and also adds three great tracks from the same date that were left off of the original LPs. This double CD pack also includes four more live numbers from other concerts recorded in the late 50s. Coleman Hawkins and Roy Eldridge really enjoy working together and it shows, its hard to find music with more good vibes and warm energy than this. Although this was recorded in 59, this CD presents the classic sound that Hawk and Roy developed in the 40s. They were both key figures in jazz’s evolution from swing to be-bop and what they play has the old school charm of the swing, but with more up-tempo sass and NY attitude like the bop. On this date they play many of the great songs that were part of the early bop movement; “Body and Soul”, “How High the Moon”, “Honeysuckle Rose” and others that were favored vehicles for the young boppers to work out their new ideas. Sure its fun music, but on the other hand, this concert can also be seen as a history lesson in the development of jazz. Roy and Hawk were the direct predecessors for the intense explosion in jazz that would culminate with Gillespie and Parker, high octane numbers on here like “Bean and the Boys” show the energy they could unleash while still maintaining a sense of relaxed cool. Hawkins in particular had such a huge influence on the future of jazz saxophone playing, although he maintains the outer appeal of elegant swing, listen closely and he will quickly knock off a run that spells the future for Parker, Coltrane, Ornette, John Gilmore and many more.

The recording quality on here is excellent, everything comes through loud and clear, but as was the custom at the time, the mix favors the star horn players. The four live cuts added from other concerts have poorer sound quality, but the two tracks from the Antibes Jazz Festival really smoke. If you enjoy early bop, or are looking for a way to introduce yourself to this style, this CD is highly recommended, this one is special.