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Rating: 
Summary: Solid Jazz Resource
Review: 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 !!!
Rating: 
Summary: Tome Sweet Tome
Review: I sometimes use this book to check out CDs after I purchase them, but like a lot of the other reviewers I notice plenty of glaring omissions like Mulgrew Miller, a great pianist and former Jazz Messenger. Also the editors have some elitist tastes. They tend to dis and underrepresent genres that they find low-brow like Lou Donaldson's funky jazz. They include a pretty good sampler CD and overall Im glad I bought this, but I probably will invest in another swollen jazz book soon.
Rating: 
Summary: brookmeyer bio
Review: I started playing trombone in 1943 (age 13) -- I was with Mel's band in 1980-82--- I PLAYED w. Mulligan's CJB and wrote -- I now line in NH and teach at New England Conservatory, still working in Europe with my New Art Orchestra (Challenge Records)--- no excuse for all the errors -- my bio is at bobbrookmeyer.com on Jazz Corner. thanks -- bob brookmeyer
Rating: 
Summary: Way too many albums missing
Review: I was astounded to find that a good percentage of the jazz albums in my collection aren't even mentioned in this book. With all the re-releases of classic albums of the 40's, 50's and 60's over the last couple of years, this book is sorely behind. At the time of its printing (1998), it took into account only those items in print at that time rather than reflecting the entire catalog of any given artist. Thus, a good number of recordings are completely ignored.There is some entertaining information here, but it is missing way too many albums to be considered the "Essential Album Guide".
Rating: 
Summary: Not ideal, but a fun book with much information.
Review: 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
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