The problem that once faced premier league big band leaders was that they built up the profile of individual musicians only for them to suddenly quit and strike out on their own. It's a predicament that confronted Woody Herman more than once. But should the occasion arise, Woody could be relied upon to dig out his contacts book and field a crack team: the 1959 Monterey Jazz Festival was one such occasion.

Though it only lasts 36 minutes, this six tune segment is nothing less than magnificent in every way. It's as though all involved knew that this was a very special assignment and, with Mel Lewis in the driving seat, gave of their very best on (naturally) ‘Four Brothers’, ‘Like Some Blues Man’ (replete with a great intro from Victor Feldman on vibes), ‘Skoobeedoobee’ and a gung-ho ‘Monterey Apple Tree’. Unquestionably, one of this year's must-have reissues. I'm almost inclined to add an extra star. I wonder what happened to the miles of unreleased tapes?