Sammy Davis Jr. was (arguably) the most talented member of the fabled Rat Pack.  He left behind one of the richest bodies of recorded music in history, as these five recently re-issued discs ably attest.

Definitive evidence of Vaughan's unique vocal jazz style can be found on this strong collection.  These 23 tracks from 1944 through 1963 include a wide range of great material and stellar collaborators.

Monk's music is challenging in its simplicity. Like the stories of Faulkner or the films of Fellini, the genius remains a mystery until the end, when the epiphany joins with the last echo of the coda.

If you are new to jazz and big band, this 14-track collection may be a nice opportunity to pick up some wonderfully re-mastered recordings from the swing era's greatest bandleader.