claimed that this dozen-song collection was among his favorites, namely because he was able to call all the shots. In the liner text, -- who was already well into his fourth decade as a multimedia entertainer -- refers to the -led project as "the album I had always wanted to make." Modern listeners may not be familiar with 's work, however prior to World War II, the instrumentalist-turned-arranger was hailed as the 'King of the Dixieland Trumpet,' forming his own upon returning from military service in 1946. Likewise, as a sizable contributor to the of the late '40s and early '50s, was the perfect choice for the collaboration. Although he hadn't fully retired, by 1957 had irreparably altered the landscape of popular music, leaving 's unmistakable crooning style passe. Since he was not a concurrent contender for the charts, the vocalist indulged his own considerable tastes and talents. Rather than having material specifically penned, and were joined by arranger and together they chose a handful of numbers that will inevitably be familiar, highlighted by outstanding readings of Head and shoulders above the rest is a spirited rendition of easily rivalling 's memorable version some eight-years later. Another zenith is the lesser-known as equals, if not arguably bests, Brit-vocal diva 's interpretation of a tune that became a signature in her tragically short career. (1957) was remastered and reissued as part of 's First Editions series and unlike many of the other entries, there are no bonus performances. That said, the audio quality is impeccable and the 12-page booklet contains rare photos from the recording session and an essay from critic . ~ Lindsay Planer