Lester Young - Lester Leaps In: Live At Birdland 1951-1952 [RSD Black Friday 2025]

This never-before-released set captures one of the most influential tenor saxophonists of all time, live at NYC’s iconic jazz venue Birdland. It features eight tracks recorded on four different dates in 1951 and 1952 for ABC Radio’s infamous “Jumpin with Symphony Sid” program. Host Sid Torin introduces several of the tracks, one of which, “Neenah”, includes a shoutout to audience member Billie Holiday who originated the bebop legend's nickname “Prez” (for “President of the Tenor Sax”). The backing bands feature pianists John Lewis, Cyril Haynes, and Earl Knight; percussionists “Papa” Jo Jones and Lee Abrams; bassist Gene Ramey; and trumpeter Jesse Drakes.

Pressed on 180-gram vinyl and featuring rare photos with extensive liner notes from jazz historian Scott Yanow.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Lester Leaps In
2. Ghost Of A Chance
3. Up And Atom
4. These Foolish Things
5. Neenah Side

Side B

1. Indiana
2. How High the Moon
3. ‘Deed I Do

UPC: 810177215820
Label: LIBERATION HALL
Release Date: 11.28.25
Format: Vinyl