Amazing Collections

Although the original Savoy label recorded jazz (including Charlie Parker and many bop and hard bop groups) and blues before ending up as a gospel label in the 1960s, its greatest musical legacy is probably its huge number of R&B recordings. During the years covered by this four-CD set, 1944-1961, Savoy recorded all types of rhythm and blues performers, ranging from jump blues and doo wop to soul, from honking saxophonists to smooth vocalists.

Stompin' at the Savoy contains 84 performances that are roughly in chronological order which trace the evolution of both the label and R&B. Starting with some jazz-oriented selections by Hot Lips Page and Pete Brown, the definitive overview includes both famous classics and superior obscurities. Along the way one hears from Big Joe Turner, Billy Eckstine, Johnny Otis (including "Harlem Nocturne"), Paul Williams ("The Hucklebuck"), Dusty Fletcher ("Open the Door, Richard"), Doc Pomus, Hal Singer, The Ravens, Esther Phillips, H Bomb Ferguson, Nappy Brown, Jimmy Scott and Big Maybelle ("Candy"), along with many lesser-known performers.

The extensive liner notes give the background about each performance, adding to the value of this colorful set. Fans of 1950s R&B can consider Stompin' at the Savoy to be essential.

—Scott Yanow