A uniformly brilliant effort from cool-toned trumpeter Chet Baker in his first ever appearance as a leader for the New York-based label Riverside Records, …In New York is the epitome of West Coast cool meets East Coast sensibility. Teaming up with pianist Al Haig, tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Philly Joe Jones, Baker's laid-back mastery is on full display throughout this historic session. Marked by an uncanny group unity, which gives rise to many outstanding supporting solos, the tracks captured on …In New York alternatingly effervesce with a California-cool introspection ('Polka Dots And Moonbeams') and percolate with driving intensity ('Hotel 49'). An excellent survey of Baker's style and prowess as a leader, Chet Baker In New York is highly recommended as THE album to own for anyone curious about diving in to his illustrious catalog.