Eleven covers from Mark Cass, Kawika Lum Ho, Mark Cass with Uketopia, Herb Ohta Jr, Keoki Kahumoku, Rick Cunha, Sean Na'auao, Luisa Finau, Michael Piranha,and Andy Sexton. CD

A great little 2 CD set – one that features 40 tracks from the heyday of the exotica era – from one of its best proponents! Les Baxter was a supremely talented writer and arranger – one who worked at Capitol for a number of years in the 50s, until he hit upon the style of exotic instrumentation and orchestration that soon became an instant hit. Baxter's work from the time set the tone for countless followers – and this well-done package brings together most of the best tunes from that period. Titles include "Quiet Village", "Simba", "Pool Of Love", "Busy Port", "Spice Islands", "Love Dance", "Safari", "Harem Silks From Bombay", "Lost City", "The Left Arm Of Buddha", and "Mombassa After Midnight". CD

One of our favorite-ever keyboard albums – a rare lost session from pianist Pete Jolly – one of his only electric dates, and a completely improvised set of grooves! Pete plays electric piano, organ, and even a bit of musette – jamming in the studio with help from Chuck Berghofer on bass, Paul Humphrey on drums , John Pisano on guitar, and Milt Holland and Emil Richards on percussion – all of whom bring in some sly, subtle touches to the grooves that are totally great! The album's much more open than other keyboard dates from the time – almost in the territory of some of Herbie Hancock's most experimental work, but a fair bit more groove-based too – given that the album's filled with short, funky tracks all the way through. There's some echoes of Bob James work to come – and given the 1970 date of the record, it could almost be said that Jolly predates a whole host of 70s keyboard talents – setting his mark with this uniquely laidback set of tracks. Titles include the classic "Plummer Park", plus "Rainbow", "Seasons", "Indian's Summer", "Pete Jolly", "Leaves", "Springs", "Bees", and "Sand Storm". (Jazz, Now Sound) CD