This five-LP box set (which has been reissued on CD) contains nearly all of
Stan Getz's classic bossa nova sessions, five wonderful yet diverse LPs (
Jazz Samba,
Big Band Bossa Nova, Jazz Samba Encore,
Stan Getz/Laurindo Almedia, and Getz/Gilberto). The cool-toned tenor is heard on his groundbreaking collaboration with guitarist
Charlie Byrd (which resulted in the best-selling "Desafinado"), is showcased with a big band arranged by
Gary McFarland (introducing "No More Blues" and "One Note Samba"), stars in recordings with guitarists
Laurindo Almeida and
Luiz Bonfa, and is heard at the famous meeting with composer/pianist
Antonio Carlos Jobim, guitarist João Gilberto, and singer
Astrud Gilberto, which resulted in the major hit "The Girl From Ipanema." This essential set finishes off with three previously unissued performances from a 1964 Carnegie Hall Concert, concluding with a remake of "The Girl From Ipanema." These recordings stand as proof that it is possible for good music to sell. ~ Scott Yanow