Jo Stafford

Perhaps this whopping four-CD, 108-track collection should be titled "Her Greatest Hits, And More." Jo Stafford, a premier jazz-pop singer of the late '30s onward, had a great voice, substantial musicianship behind her, an undeniable sex appeal, and a seemingly limitless repertoire, if you judge by what's on this compilation. Each CD is split into thematic or chronological segments. CD one -- "Pied Pipers, Tommy Dorsey, Early Recordings" is her entry point as a big band "chick" singer including seminal tunes "In a Little Spanish Town," "Yes Indeed," and "Embraceable You." CD two, consisting of "V Discs, Airchecks, Solos, Collaborations" may be the least interesting, but features familiar tunes as "Haunted Heart" and "The Gentleman Is a Dope." Her actual "greatest hits" are on CD three, while CD four is a mix of obscurities and jazz standards wrapped in the caveat "Pops, Jazz, Standards, Showtime." Her comedic work as the faux diva Darlene Edwards is not included, but that's OK, as fans of Stafford should salivate for the opportunity to buy this comprehensive overview of her career, lovingly issued by the reliable JSP label. ~ Michael G. Nastos, All Music Guide