The Definitive Vince Guaraldi

Album Review

As part of the Fantasy Definitive series, pianist and composer Vince Guaraldi is spotlighted on 31 tracks recorded for the label between 1955 and 1966. This noteworthy compilation focuses not only on Guaraldi as the composer of songs from the Charlie Brown television cartoon, but as a versatile jazz pianist. The Peanuts themes make up eight tracks while the remainder of the set blends music from the LPs Jazz Impressions of Black Orpheus, The Latin Side of Vince Guaraldi, Vince Guaraldi Trio, Vince & Bola (And Friends)/Live at El Matador, In Person, and A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing. Collectors should take note of the two unreleased bonus tracks "Autumn Leaves" and "Blues for Peanuts," both from 1964. While this double-disc compilation spotlights ten years of a well-rounded career, it's unfortunate that the cover art finds Guaraldi sharing the spotlight with the piano-playing Peanuts character Schroeder, as it may give the impression that this set is dedicated to the Charlie Brown material.