Artists: 
Lester Young,  
Roy Eldridge,  
Harry Edison

Laughin' To Keep From Cryin'

Acoustic Sounds Vinyl
€39,99

Release date: 24 July 2026

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 ACOUSTIC SOUNDS SERIES: mastered fully analogue from the original tapes by Ryan K. Smith at Sterling Sound, QPR pressing (180 g), firm tip-on gatefold (Stoughton Printing), padded inner sleeve.

 

Tracklisting:

Laughin' To Keep From Cryin' (1958)

A1. Salute To Benny

A2. They Can't Take That Away From Me

B1. Romping

B2. Gypsy In My Soul

B3. Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone

Get into the details

Format Album
Release Date 2026
Speed 33 RPM
Size 12"
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