This sampler is comprised of performances from several different Monterey Jazz Festivals, spanning 41 years. Some of the selections (those featuring Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Sarah Vaughan) were released elsewhere in the first batch in this series of previously unavailable Monterey performances. One can assume that the other seven songs will probably be in future releases. Just judged by itself, the most rewarding selections of this sampler are an inspired Thelonious Monk romp on "Rhythm-A-Ning," an excellent "Someday My Prince Will Come" by the Dave Brubeck Quartet, Joe Henderson's exploration of "Isotope," and Dizzy Gillespie's happy calypso "Poor Joe." Most of the other performances, including the 1963 Miles Davis Quintet on "Autumn Leaves" and Jimmy Witherspoon's humorous "S.K. Blues" have their moments of interest. Serious collectors will prefer the more complete sets while listeners wanting a sampling of jazz greats will find this to be a useful release. [An edition was released in 2007 that included the Dave Brubeck Quartet's performance of "Sleep" as a bonus.] ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide