Polka Dots And Moonbeams - Johnny Hamlin Quintet

Play, Fiddle, Play

Polka Dots And Moonbeams
Johnny Hamlin Quintet
RCA Victor LPM-1379
1957

Johnny Hamlin: piano and electric accordion
Leland K. Baska, Jr.: Reeds
Kenneth Earnes: Bass
Art Mooshagian, Jr.: Trombone and Trumpet
Donald Hamernik: Drums

This intriguing cover art, featuring a nice relaxed portrait of Hamlin, sets the tone for the disc set that engages you, for the most part, with a laid back jazz groove.

From the back cover: Lionel Hampton, whose superb artistry is matched only by his ability to discover new talent, suggested that we keep our eyes on Johnny. Shortly after that some of the regular patrons of the Blue Note informed us that there was a small group playing in the Chicago area and speaking with a great big musical sound. And, finally, we heard one of Johnny Hamlin's early records and were convinced that he should have a hearing before the large and fairly informed audience of the Blue Note.

The immediate result of Johnny's Blue Note engagement was an RCA Victor recording contract. This in itself was a neat plum to pluck so early in his career. This album is the result of Johnny Hamlin's first recording date with Victor.

Also see Powder Puff Jazz and Hip Trip Down Some Other Street

Polka Dots And Moonbeams
Moonlight In Vermont
Cyclone
The Note Is Blue
Play, Fiddle, Play
I Remember April
Dancing On The Ceiling
Mood Indigo
El Gaucho
A Foggy Day
Summer Love
Battle Of The Horns