Billie Holiday Verve Box

[andersf]

I came across this box a few days ago, and ended up with mixed feelings about buying it.

Certainly, some of the music is very good, but as I alrady have the JATP-box and a double CD with her sessions with Ben Webster & Sweets Edison, I have a feeling a already may have much of music already; also at least one CD in the box is from a rehearsal, which won't really be listened too that often.

This is my impression from sort of thumbing through the box, but it would be good to hear from someone who actually has listened to it.

Anders

Edited May 27, 2003 by andersf

[jazzbo]

Here's my two cents: Well, I have it. . . and I listen to it. I find it fascinating to listen to a few cds worth of these at a time. You get into a sort of bleak world with spotlights here and there. Great music, makes you sad to remember the Billie of the thirties and early forties, but she still can knock you over in these recordings. . . .

You may well just sit tight where you are. It's probably fine to grab the individual releases here and there now and then. But the box is a worthwhile purchase, especially if you can get it from one of the clubs or used at a good price. I find that the sound is good and holds up. . . .

[jlhoots]

I bought this at a very good price from Columbia House a while back.

I didn't have the material in any other format. Sold all of my vinyl.

Essentially I agree with Lon (Jazzbo).

[andersf]

Thanks for the advice,

I'll definitely think about it some more. Probably not, for me, an essential set. Yet even at her second best Billie Holiday remains a great jazz singer, as I find that the Bud Powell and Lester Young Verve sets repay close listening, I would probably appreciate the Billie Holiday set as well.

Anders