8 Classic Albums (1959)

Acht albums uit 1958/59, te beginnen bij het geroemde "The Atomic Mr. Basie" (als enige uit deze set ook los bij ons te leen). "The release of this album marked the beginning of a glorious new phase in Count Basie's career. It was a reminder that there was room for fresh, even dazzling improvisation (especially courtesy of Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis's contribution) within the framework of a big-band jazz unit." (Allmusic) Volgende in de set is "Basie Plays Hefti": "The Count Basie Orchestra was in top form for this set of Neal Hefti arrangements. Hefti had been one of the main architects of the new Basie sound of the '50s and on this memorable date he utilizes the flute of Frank Wess prominently. "Cute" (heard here in its initial recording) became a standard." (Allmusic) Dan volgt het live in Miami opgenomen "Breakfast Dance And Barbeque" met veelal niet eerder in studiovorm uitgebracht materiaal. De laatste twee CD's bevatten het materiaal van vier vocale platen, met Billy Eckstine, Tony Bennett en Joe Williams.

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