The dates and facts surrounding the birth of Carlos Gardel, even his real name and nationality, are still argued about--more than 60 years after his death in a plane crash. But his place as the greatest singer in the history of tango is indisputable. Gardel not only nearly singlehandedly defined the tango-cancion (sung tango) and set the standards of interpretation. For many, he embodied the very spirit of tango--urbane yet streetwise, romantic but also tough, sensual but oh-so-cool. This collection, smartly selected and reasonably improved aurally, offers ample proof. North American audiences may recognize songs such as El Dia Que Me Quieras (sung by Luis Miguel, Julio Iglesias), Mi Buenos Aires Querido (Iglesias) and Por Una Cabeza (soundtrack True Lies). Gardel brings to his performance impeccable intonation, precise phrasing and just the right pathos. These are the definitive versions by a master at the peak of his powers. --Fernando Gonzalez