Musichound Jazz

It's true that this guide is screaming to be updated, as far as the buyer's guide part goes, but it's really the bios on the musicians that are the strength of this book. Plus, the albums mentioned are often good(if not the BEST) options for purchase. I mean, although there are newer and newer generations of earlier releases hitting the market, just be aware of this and shop smart. I mean, the direction of CD(and DVD) now is moving swiftly, as far as digital restoration. Just always keep this in mind. Still, this guide is perfect when it comes to explaining what NOT to get. Most of these warnings hold up, I've found. Yes, it's also probably true that reviewers can be elitist, too. However, the competitive guides-Penguin, AMG, etc.-are no better in this. Not to mention, these are not near as detailed. The albums these guides have referred are much more OFTEN not near the best. Until there's a newer edition-or better guide-Musichound is doing it better. If you're interested in some of the more mainstream music of the 40s and 50s, look into the Lounge guide, too. Also, the Swing guide is more detailed on that part of the jazz movement.

While there is much information in this book, it is more of a jazz encyclopedia than a guide. I say this because it does a good job of summarizing the artists - the entries are well written. But, it's a bit weak on the recording reviews. It tends to review only those recordings that are currently available. With the labels re-releasing so many old recordings, you will find that many recent re-releases are not covered. I would prefer a comprehensive list of an artists original releases (as much as possible - at least all of an artist's major releases should be listed, whether they are currently available or not). The entries should be listed or highlighted with bold text - instead they are burried in the paragraph making quick reference difficult. Like many guides they are too liberal with the 5 star (they use bones) ratings.This book covers all forms of jazz including fusion and crossover, a positive for those who want to learn about all types of music related to jazz. Personally, I could do without the Kenny G. reviews. Even with my reservations, I will admit its a fun book to have and for the price you get much useful information and an accompanying CD with very well chosen titles. -GR4

This is a must-have reference book that is of great use to the jazz aficionado. It does have one glaring flaw, though -- not enough coverage of bossa nova and jazz influenced by Brazilian music (think of the hundreds of jazz interpretations of Jobim's compositions). For that I would recommend "The Brazilian Sound," which includes 1,000 titles in its discography.

As someone who is just discovering the jazz genre, I found it very helpful in pointing me in the right direction as to what makes up a good collection. Just about everyone you could think of is reviewed, plus some you didn't. If you are just getting into jazz, I highly recommend this book !!!

This is one complete and fun to read guide to jazz albums. Very intelligent (but not overly scholarly) biographies and well stated, easy to understand reviews of albums. I have the All Music Guide and Penguin jazz books, but this one is much more accessible and interesting. I especially like the section that lists all of the 5 star albums. Any music lover would be proud to own this hefty book. And it includes a nice Blue Note CD in the back. I heartily recommend this book!