That's probably 'cause you bought the shitty US pressings made by Audio Fidelity. In Europe they were pressed variously by Polydor/Polygram in England, RCA in France and Sonopress in Germany. There may have been others but that's what I remember.
This reminds me of the Alan Shorter Verve lp. They only pressed promos and by accident I was in the pressing plant on the day that happened. For interested parties, they were pressed by the Chess plant in Chicago. They did a bunch of work for MGM/Verve in those days.
I think the best way to approach his work is chronological. Small groups/sideman gigs, early PJ big band sides and proceed thru the Columbias as far as your brain will take you.
Mike, the 8000 series was mono. The stereo issues were in the 9000 series.
The first 3 sessions you list were not on the original Candid and originate from Cadence (the parent label).
Steve Brown; born New Orleans, LA, 1890. I think he was trying to look smart referenceing the Whiteman/Goldkette bassist. At least he knows the music pre-dates the '50s.
So does Ari tuck his instrument under his chin?