Modern Jazz Quartet, The Quintessence (Fremeaux & Associés, two CDs). An exceptionally well-chosen anthology of classic MJQ recordings made between 1952 and 1960, imported from France and worth every penny. If you’re in need of an introduction to one of the great working jazz groups of the postwar era, this one will do the job with plenty of room to spare (TT).
Terry Teachout on the arts in New York City
