For this latest 4CD sound- picture Rhythm and Blues Records has again found some gems from unlikely sources, and included a substantial essay by jazz historian and Jazzwise contributor Simon Spillett. The plan is as follows: alternating CDs contrast parallel outputs from UK [often ex- BBC] and US outlets, with 78 tracks in all. CD1 kicks off with a strong Lyttelton big band piece ‘The Man From Auntie’, featuring Tony Coe at his serpentine best.

Ian Hamer's sextet follows, bright and confident and so it goes. Mind you, when it comes to confidence, consider ‘Change of Setting’ by the Tubby Hayes Quartet: leader Hayes brimful with vigour, Tony Levin's drumming like a flame-thrower. What a force Hayes was! But then we know that. Scott is equally potent in a Tracey quartet and on his own account, before Joe Harriott flies with pianist Mike Garrick's sextet. As for the Americans on CD2, the grip of the funky stereotype is clearer, with plenty of organ combos and rhythmic novelties. Hayes, Tracey and tenorist Dick Morrissey fly the flag for Britain on CD3 and a number of US obscurities emerge on its companion.

A case of dip in and enjoy More to the point, why not reflect on a time in London when the open-minded punter was faced with a plethora of choices, everything from visiting Americans at Ronnie's right through to all-nighters at the Flamingo and beyond? Great days, and a plus for British jazz on this evidence, with so many good drummers on view, and no duds, to speak of, bar John Surman's grim soprano on ‘Blues da Camera’. Buy direct from the label and you get a fifth CD as a bonus.