Moe Koffman (1928–2001) was one of Canada's most accomplished jazz musicians, arrangers and composers. After establishing himself as a leading jazz figure in Canada, he moved to New York in 1950, where he performed with bands led by Buddy Morrow, Jimmy Dorsey, Charlie Barnet, Tito Rodriguez and Chico O'Farrill.

A remarkably versatile multi-instrumentalist, Koffman was equally proficient on clarinet, alto and tenor saxophones, flute, and alto flute. After periods with Tex Beneke and Don Rodney's band, Koffman returned to Toronto in 1955, where he did TV studio work and led his own group, featuring some of Canada's most promising young jazz talents. Recorded in February 1957, Cool and Hot Sax was the group's debut album, showcasing a polished, tightly voiced sound inspired by the West Coast jazz style. The album also includes Koffman's composition "The Swingin' Shepherd Blues," which later became an international hit.

—Jordi Pujol (From the inside liner notes of FSRCD 1087)