With the
Compact Jazz series offering plenty of fine single-artist starter discs, there should be no hesitation in picking up this multi-artist overview for that jazz neophyte friend. As usual, the price is right and the selection generous. Covering the '50s, '60s, and '70s, the disc includes both vocal and instrumental tracks from the likes of
Sarah Vaughan, Bill Evans,
Dinah Washington,
Erroll Garner,
Stan Getz,
Ella Fitzgerald, and
Billie Holiday. And for the more discerning listener, cuts by
Chick Corea and
the Swingle Singers won't disappoint. A very enjoyable way to start down that road to jazz obsession.
–
Stephen Cook, Rovi