This guide provides an exhaustive survey of jazz and blues recordings, offering critical evaluations of over ten thousand albums. The book traces the evolution of these genres from early 20th-century pioneers like Louis Armstrong through the big band era of Duke Ellington and Count Basie, extending to contemporary artists such as Branford Marsalis and Cassandra Wilson. It aims to direct listeners to the best compact disc selections through incisive reviews and a clear one-to-five-star rating system. The guide serves as an encyclopedic resource for exploring the rich history of jazz and blues music.

As a comprehensive guide to jazz and blues recordings, this volume offers extensive coverage and critical evaluations. The book's encyclopedic nature and detailed historical tracing from early jazz to contemporary artists provide a valuable resource for music enthusiasts. Its inclusion of incisive reviews and a star-rating system aims to guide listeners toward the best available albums. The guide is positioned as the most thorough compilation of jazz and blues recordings in print.