Bypass this set - go for the JSP box set instead...

Columbia missed a trick with this one. Although they succeeded in removing most of the snap and crackle of the original 78s, the resulting sound quality is flat and lifeless. I suppose Columbia was aiming this product at a general listening audience as opposed to a dedicated afficionado of oldie jazz. Perhaps Columbia reasoned that the average listener would find the surface noise distracting. But this music should sound better than it does in Columbia's presentation of it. Yes it sounds clean, but it also sounds dull. There's no bloom on the trumpet tone!

JSP's (much cheaper) issue of this wonderful music is also available on Amazon. The powerful sound of Louis's trumpet comes through much better on their box set.

genius undermined

The numerous coplaints about the packaging are spot on
The glue is toxic, and discs need rescue into blank cases. The book itself is more glossy than substantial, although photographs have atmosphere. More analytical commentary was a foregone opportunity.
That said, i'll defend the remastering. I think the sound has quite a vivid immediacy. Certainly there's a great deal of background hiss and scratch, but if this is minimised most of the sonic vitality seems to go with it.
This package scores also because it is so inclusive. Some 'extras', notably the last four tracks on disc 3, scarcely justify their presence . But others more than compensate. Before considering rival editions check that they include, as this does, the ttracks recorded under Lil Armstrong's name GEORGIA BO BO and DROP THAT SACK., both of which are prime Hot Fives in all but name. There's a revealing second take of the latter. Sessions under Dodd's name are an added attraction, also with alternate takes [see Disc 3}

Needless to say, my star allocation doesn't apply to the music. If you've come this far you know that.

Hot Five Stars for Hot Fives and Sevens!

I'm serious. This collection of music is essential to my existence. There is nothing that will ever top the recordings that you'll hear on this set. The discs have not left my multi-player since I purchased this about a year ago. Louis Louis! Oh Baby!