Charlie "Bird" Parker took part in three big-band recording sessions with arranger Joe Lipman [one in 1950 and two in 1952], following earlier large-scale experiments with Machito [Latin jazz] and the With Strings project [smoochy standards]. This time, the tunes are still saturated by sweet strings but melded with punchy horn parts, the two sides enjoy a lively tension. Parker weaves with great resourcefulness and agility between the charted constructs, framed by delicate plucking, muted trumpets or full-on swing outbreaks. These tracks were originally released on Clef 78s [a Verve ancestor], explaining the preference for capsule-sized 3 minute statements. The original running order is bolstered by three tunes recorded with Gil Evans in 1953, featuring the Dave Lambert Singers. The booklet notes are quite dismissive of these cuts but it must be said that they do exude a certain kitschy charm, especially when the album concludes with numerous alternative takes in quick succession. The cumulative effect is humorous to say the least, these bonus tracks intended for occasional dipping rather than the one-sitting experience. --Martin Longley