AMG Review of Compact Jazz: Astrud Gilberto

Stephen Cook
All Music Guide

For listeners new to Gilberto's classic Verve work, this edition of the label's Compact Jazz sampler series makes for a perfect introduction. Along with Verve's equally fine Silver Collection of Gilberto's prime sides, this 16-track set includes cuts from most of the singer's different projects. From her classic Getz date ("The Girl From Ipanema") to her solo sessions with both Gil Evans ("Berimbau") and Ron Carter and Toots Thielemans ("Beach Samba"), the music is always top-notch. A disc that will please both your bossa nova- and jazz-loving friends at that next Carnaval party.