As this is just about the only decent collection of
Bailey's recordings, both solo and with the
Fletcher Henderson band, this is the best package, but it's also a less-than-stellar one. After a scratchy start, the transfers range from good to acceptable. The
Henderson tracks showcase him well, and the later sides with
John Kirby are a bit restrained, but for truly surreal material, one must check out "Man With a Horn Goes Berserk" and the quaint version of "Pinetop's Boogie Woogie." An uneven set, but the best one available. ~ Cub Koda