Whether or not the Original Dixieland Jazz Band were the actual "creators of jazz" as the cover on this West End compilation asserts is up for serious debate, but one cannot deny the value of this budget-priced Essential Collection. Here are 49 tracks, arranged chronologically from 1917 through the early '30s. The band underwent changes during that time, but the music was the same. Also of note is how many tunes that are now standards in the New Orleans repertoire were written by members of this fine outfit: "Ostrich Walk," "Tiger Walk," "Sensation Rag," and many others. This double-disc set is essentially a non-remastered reissue of Avid's earlier collection of the same name that was released in 2001. ~ Thom Jurek

Le Voyage de Saharfeatures persuasive, emotionally powerful new compositions by Anouar Brahem, and also incorporates new approaches to three of his most requested pieces: "Vague", "E la nave va" and "Halfaouine". Brahem, Couturier and Matinier take the music of Le Voyage de Saharon the road in March with concerts in Portugal, France, Ireland, Belgium, Switzerland and Germany. The tour culminates in a special double concert with the Brahem trio plus Rolf Lislevand's group in Munich on April 8.