Larry Vuckovich - Lester's Minor Blues

Lester Leaps In (Jon Hendricks weaves swing/bebop vocalese on this track that is reminiscent of the original Basie Kansas City Seven.)

Last Train From Overbrook (Jon Hendricks gives a creative, lyrical bebop scat solo set against drummer Harold Jones' fast train-like opening rhythm.)

Serbo Salsa (Larry Vuckovich original features a down-home Balkan theme that grooves naturally with Latin salsa.)

Short Indigo (Jon Hendricks wrote and sang lyrics inspired by soulful, inventive Shorty Baker trumpet solo on "Mood Indigo" chord changes.)

Tickle Toe (Jon Hendricks sings this song with the last eight bars from a trumpet solo of Bix Beiderbecke, who influenced Lester Young.)

Flamingo (This is an authentic lyrical bolero.)

Impressions (recalls John Coltrane's importance in introducing and shaping modal concept and sound in jazz.)

Lester's Minor Blues (Larry Vuckovich original suggests Lester Young's melodic and smooth rhythmic phrasing.)

One Heart (Dave Brambert original is set to a bolero rhythm that enhances its beauty and romantic quality.)

Scrapple From The Apple (Afro-Cuban jazz interpretation fuses Charlie Parker's sophisticated, syncopated bebop rhythm and melody with a mambo beat.)