Avid again, and another of their ‘classic albums’ twosomes, their fourth by Getz. This one is a little more variedly programmed than previous issues. The first disc – containing both the stereo and mono versions of Getz's 1957 JATP LPs with trombonist Johnson, made at different locations and with subtly different personnel – is from the saxophonist's pre-bossa period; the second disc, containing the legendary Jazz Samba album, co-led by guitarist Charlie Byrd and Getz's masterly collaboration with Gary McFarland's big band, takes the listener across the Rubicon and into the tenorist's most popular period. Not that there really is any such sharp division. The concerts with Johnson are sublime, both horn men at the top of their game, and with Peterson proving his considerable skills as an accompanist. Even hackneyed themes like ‘My Funny Valentine’ come out fresh, largely through some great tempo choices, and there is one of Getz’ most arresting ballads in ‘It Never Entered My Mind.’ The two bossa nova titles are summits of a different kind, Getz’ natural lyricism finding a a new and stimulating home in the Brazilian ‘new wave’. Jazz Samba has the ‘hits’ ‘Desafinado’ and ‘Samba De Un Nota So’ (‘One Note Samba’) and is a record of consistent beauty, but this writer's favourite is Big Band Bossa Nova on which McFarland's subtle, Gil Evans-ish arrangements start to uncover something darker at the heart of the summery samba vibe. ‘Mahna De Carnaval’ and ‘Chega De Saudade’ are among Getz's best recordings, but then again everything on this release can be considered so. Recommended, especially to newcomers to the saxophonist.