Around this time I suggest CDs for those of you still searching for something to buy a special jazz-loving friend or relative, whose Christmas gift may well be presenting the annual problem.

I have had the pleasure of reviewing a significant number this year but among those I have heard and have yet to include in these jottings, I can heartily recommend the following two: The Charles Mingus Sextet with Eric Dolphy: Cornell 1964. Master bassist Mingus and reeds specialist Dolphy are in tremendous form on this Blue Note offering.

Basie At Birdland: Recorded live at the famous New York jazz venue in 1961. Issued on the Roulette Birdland Series, this is a wonderful example of one of the most vibrant big swing bands in history.