Through all the frantic bop, strings dates, and beautiful ballad playing,
Charlie Parker always maintained his Kansas City-bred love of the blues; in fact, he took the musical mode to unprecedented heights on such classics as "Parker's Mood." And while that fine cut is not included here, this
Compact Jazz offering of some of Bird's blues sides still comes off quite nicely, especially with the likes of "Back Home Blues" and "Si Si" in the mix.
Parker newcomers are advised to first check out one of the more comprehensive Verve collections, but those stumbling upon this budget collection certainly won't be disappointed. ~ Stephen Cook