It was produced by Russell Gloyd and engineered by Ron Davis and Phil Edwards.

Paper Moon is a highly accessible recording; it flows seamlessly with the bass and drums providing a steady accompaniment.

The title track, "It’s Only a Paper Moon", begins with Dave Brubeck's piano, backed by the drummer's fast but light rhythm and the bassist's syncopated plucking.

About forty seconds into the track the piano switches to stride style, and at 0:52 the saxophone enters on the melody as Dave Brubeck comps.

His improvisation dips into the lowest registers, giving the piece a fuller and rougher tone.