Laughin' To Keep From Cryin'

Recorded and released in 1958, just over a year before his death, Laughin’ to Keep from Cryin’ captures saxophonist Lester Young in one of his final studio sessions. Though his tone had softened, Young’s phrasing remains fluid and expressive, favoring subtlety over force. Produced by Norman Granz, the date brings together Roy Eldridge and Harry “Sweets” Edison on trumpet, whose contrasting styles—fiery drive and relaxed, bluesy restraint—create a compelling musical contrast. Backed by Hank Jones (piano), Herb Ellis (guitar), George Duvivier (bass), and Mickey Sheen (drums), the session blends small-group swing with a polished studio feel. Highlights include “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” and “Salute to Benny”—a tribute to Benny Goodman, who gave Young his first clarinet—with both tracks featuring rare late-career clarinet solos by Young. The album documents one of Young’s final studio sessions, a closing chapter for “The Pres.” Verve’s Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes and remastered 180-gram vinyl in deluxe gatefold packaging.