Craig Crofton

Renowned saxophonist Craig Crofton returns to present a special tribute to the legendary American saxophonist and composer, Hank Mobley.

Mobley, often described as the “middleweight champion of the tenor saxophone,” was celebrated for his tone that struck a perfect balance between the aggression of John Coltrane’s and the mellowness of Lester Young’s. His style was laid-back, subtle, and melodic, offering a refreshing contrast to the more fiery approaches of contemporaries like Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Mobley’s journey into jazz began across the river from Manhattan, in Newark, New Jersey, where his grandmother bought him his first tenor saxophone at the age of 16. His career took off in 1951 when drummer Max Roach introduced him to bebop legends Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie “Bird” Parker. This introduction set the stage for Mobley’s remarkable career, which saw him collaborate with jazz giants like Art Blakey, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis. His most prolific period came during the late 1950s when he recorded as a band leader with Blue Note Records, producing timeless works that culminated in his most celebrated album, Soul Station.

Craig Crofton’s tribute will honor Mobley’s enduring legacy, featuring selections from various stages of his career. Crofton will be joined by an exceptional lineup of musicians, including the virtuoso Tom Berge on piano, the swinging rhythm of Ryan Thrupp on drums, and the remarkable Pasquale Votino on bass.