This new set of rare Charlie Parker recordings dating from between 1941-1951, most of them never having been heard before and some never even having been known to exist, chronicle Bird's evolution from a blossoming soloist with the Jay McShann Band into a brilliant improviser who dominated the jazz landscape for decades to come. In addition to two unreleased 78s with the McShann band, this set offers two sets of private recordings made with local musicians and a very relaxed-sounding Parker.

Tracks:

1. Bird Song #1
2. Bird Song #2
3. Bird Song #3
4. Cherokee (Phil Baxter Version)
5. Body and Soul (Phil Baxter Version)
6. Honeysuckle Rose
7. Perdido
8. Cherokee (Vic Damon Version)
9. My Heart Tells Me
10. I've Found a New Baby
11. Body and Soul (Vic Damon Version)
12. Margie
13. I'm Getting Sentimental Over You

Label: Verve