As a neat counterpart to the Dial and Savoy reissues reviewed above, this single CD covers what one might call the more ‘straight-ahead’ aspects of Parker's contractual period with Norman Granz, producing singles issued initially on Mercury (later on Clef and Verve). In other words, it omits the more ‘creative’ combinations of Bird with Afro-Cuban rhythm-sections, which deserve renewed attention, or the big-band or strings or even vocal-group backings, which both Granz and Parker himself considered more important than later listeners did. Alongside the six Bird And Diz master takes (also covered on Avid's recent Five Classic Albums set), this compilation includes nine alternates from the same session, but not the fragmentary ones heard on complete Verve reissues.

While missing out on the highs of the Massey Hall encounters, both Parker and Gillespie are continually inventive and, though he gets less of a look-in, Monk provides stimulating accompaniment – Buddy Rich may be less desirable but not a problem.

Also included here are two other fine sessions, the earliest one featuring Dorham and Haig on five tracks including ‘Visa’ and ‘Passport’ (the quintet were about to travel to the Paris Jazz Fair) the one with Davis and Bishop, plus its two alternate takes. This is all essential stuff, and leaves one wishing for a comprehensive reissue of the best-recorded live Parker, such as the 1948-49 Royal Roost broadcasts.