Four Classic Albums: At Newport (2009)/ Dizzy And Strings / World Statesman / Gene Norman Presents...

Allmusic over "World Statesman" (1956): "This set introduced the new Dizzy Gillespie big band which was making headlines for the acclaim it received (and for the excitement it caused) during its State Department-sponsored world tours. Sidemen at the time included trumpeter Joe Gordon (who got to take Gillespie's famous break on this version of "Night in Tunisia"), trombonist/arranger Melba Liston, altoist Phil Woods, pianist Walter Davis and tenors Ernie Wilkins and Billy Mitchell. This brilliant (and historic) orchestra really shows a great deal of spirit, power and creativity." "At Newport" (1957) is zelfs de 'album pick' uit Gillespies oeuvre op Allmusic: "This CD features Dizzy Gillespie's second great big band at the peak of its powers. On the rapid "Dizzy's Blues" and a truly blazing "Cool Breeze," the orchestra really roars. This brilliant CD captures one of the high points of Dizzy Gillespie's remarkable career and is highly recommended." De andere twee album stammen uit de vroege jaren '50.