This fascinating CD features some of the best on record during 1917-1920. , the first group ever to record, is featured on the first nine selections -- their full output for ( and ) and in 1917 after their first two hit songs for . The other groups on this CD are all strongly influenced by 's colorful all-ensemble style. , featuring clarinetist , fares well on six numbers, there is one song apiece from (an expanded version of but still featuring clarinetist ), and two numbers from . Five other selections are notable for having playing piano during his early days, although he is almost inaudible. appears with , (the same group), and, on as leader of . Many of the selections on were formerly rare, making this primitive but quite listenable collection of strong interest to vintage collectors. ~ Scott Yanow