Polka Dots and Moonbeams

Lester Young

New York City, 1958

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Composed by Jimmy Van Heusen and published in 1940, “Polka Dots and Moonbeams” has since become a jazz standard. It’s been covered by Wes Montgomery, Sarah Vaughan – and was Frank Sinatra’s first big hit.

At the time of this recording Lester Young himself was experiencing quite a comeback, having just finished touring Europe alongside Miles Davis and performing regularly in the District of Columbia.

Personnel:

Lester Young, tenor sax
King Curtis, tenor sax
Ray Bryant, piano
Vinnie Burke, bass
John Parelli, drums

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