Following the introduction of compact discs in the early '80s and especially since the invention of the iPod, early jazz compilations seem to have gradually become increasingly scarce. Fortunately, like the Yazoo and Document labels, the people behind Jazz Archives periodically put together outstanding albums stuffed to the gills with lesser-known material from long ago. New York Horns should be counted among the very best of these retrospectives. This substantial slice of classic jazz from Way Down East covers the years 1924-1928 and contains cameo appearances by Harlem piano aces James P. Johnson and Willie "The Lion" Smith, and such indispensable Ellingtonians as Barney Bigard, Johnny Hodges, and Joe "Tricky Sam" Nanton. While trombones, clarinets, and saxophones are present on several of these vintage recordings, this compilation really focuses upon the art of early jazz cornet in New York City. The first 11 tracks feature James W. "Bubber" Miley, either backed by Arthur Ray on reed organ (they were billed as the Texas Blues Destroyers) or with small groups calling themselves the Kansas City Five and the Six Black Diamonds. Other cornetists heard on this excellent collection are Louis Metcalf, June Clark, Thomas Morris, and Rex Stewart. The fact that a couple of Bubber's alternate takes are included should be regarded as a wonderful asset, not a drawback. This is precious stuff. Every note should be savored and cherished. ~ arwulf arwulf, All Music Guide