‘The Kings Of .’ series continues with this latest instalment delving into the world of jazz. The CD features 25 tracks spread across 2 discs. Disc 1, selected by Gilles Peterson, mainly concentrates on the 60s and 70s with nuggets such as Donald Byrd’s ‘Cristo Redentor’, John Coltrane’s ‘Equinox’ and Mark Murphy’s version of ‘My Favorite Things’. Other highlights include ‘Quiet Fire’ by drummer Roy Haynes, taken from his album ‘Thank You, Thank You’ (Galaxy 1977), Lee Konitz’ modal masterpiece ‘Five, Four And Three’ and the haunting ‘Moves’ from Charles Mingus which features Honey Gordon and Doug Hammond (Tribe Records) on vocals. The second disc is compiled by Jazzanova and shines the light on the new breed of jazz artists. Although I’m not convinced by the inclusion of United Future Organization’s ‘Loud Minority’, on the whole this is a great set. Opening with 4 Hero’s ‘Spirits In Transit’ and ending with the beautiful Jamie Lidell fronted ‘Everything’s Changed’ by The Matthew Herbert Big Band. In between we’re treated to music from The Five Corners Quintet, Two Banks Of Four, Soil & Pimp Sessions and Sleepwalker’s ‘Into The Sun’ featuring Bembe Segue. Bembe turns up again on a live version of ‘Mother Of The Future’ which is absolutely storming as is Jeffrey Smith’s take on ‘Afro Blue’. Also worthy of note are ‘Inner City Life’ by [re:jazz], Nikki O’s ‘Butterflies’ and the Nicola Conte version of Sunaga T Experience’s ‘No Rhyme No Reason’, which was previously only available on Japanese 12". The vinyl edition is split over 2 separate double packs and in total contains only 20 tracks.
