For those of you looking to take a crash course in Jazz 101, this three-CD set would be an excellent introduction to the music. Many, if not all, of the big names are here over the 48 selections, and the program consistently offers a string of modern or vintage instrumentals, then a vocal number.
Peggy Lee's "Basin Street Blues" is only slightly out of place in terms of authenticity. Pay attention to the lesser-known artists like drummer
Pete La Roca, pianist
Herbie Nichols, saxophonist
Ike Quebec, and pianist
Sonny Clark -- they are also giants in their own right. It's hard to find much fault with this collection, as it is not "all hits all the time," has a very good variety of material including artists playing music they did not compose, and offers a listenable flow through the whole compilation, giving you an accurate picture of pure -- but not necessarily purist -- jazz. ~ Michael G. Nastos