The sheer size of this series affirms the influence of Columbia as the oldest commercial record label. This digitally re-mastered collection was issued between 1990 and 1994, (on 3 different labels), and presents a broad perspective of the big band genre in its heyday - from the 1930's into the 1950's and beyond, as recorded by Columbia. There's everything from classical to farcical - legendary names and others who never quite achieved star status. Included is the five disc "... Great Vocalists" sequel series, (issued in 1995). Liner notes by author/historians Will Friedwald and Richard Sudhalter add some interesting details about the bands and vocalists.

Most of the recordings are mono, except for a few from the late 50's and onward - when stereo reproduction had been standardized and equipment became commercially available. Like the Time-Life Big Band Series reissue on CD, Columbia employed some early DSP noise reduction technology to clean up the worst imperfections present in their source materials.  They, too, (thankfully), resisted using any  of the early,  gimicky, 'stereo enhancement' techniques on this series.  Inconsistent production notwithstanding, (i.e. missing details about many of the original recordings), this huge quantity of music is a wonderful chronicle of a bygone era.

NOTE: For easier reference, the volumes are listed alphabetically by artist name - not in order of their release.

ARTIE SHAW

ARTIE SHAW - It Goes To Your Feet

BENNY GOODMAN