Pres and Teddy

Artist: The Lester Young and Teddy Wilson Quartet

Genre: Swing

Year: 1959

Grade: A-

The most relaxed jazz instrument in history was the tenor saxophone of Lester Young. Unfortunately, Pres and Teddy — a collaboration between Young and swing pianist Teddy Wilson — was one of the last times we heard it before he died in 1959.

The session, which consists of six standards, was originally recorded in 1956. Although both musicians were well past their prime, the album represents the best of what both had to offer. Young leads the way with elegant solos, while Wilson provides sophisticated progressions in the background.