This British compilation concentrates on the early years of Lester Young"s career, from 1936 to 1944, when the tenor saxophonist was at his creative height. Most of the material is by small groups from the Count Basie milieu, with Young"s soft-toned, inventive horn floating smoothly over the great pulsing rhythms of guitarist Freddie Green, bassist Walter Page, and drummer Jo Jones. Young"s languid, proto-cool lines are still startling in the context of more aggressive swing-era soloists like trumpeter Buck Clayton and trombonist Dickie Wells. Along with usual landmark performances from the Young canon--like "Lester Leaps In" and "Lady Be Good"--there are several imaginative inclusions. He"s beautifully matched with Billie Holiday on three tracks, with his introductory chorus to "This Year"s Kisses" a highlight even by Young"s exalted standards. "Ad Lib Blues," recorded at an offhand 1940 Benny Goodman session while the sidemen awaited the leader, is another standout. It matches Young with guitarist Charlie Christian, another player with a highly advanced approach, and the influence of Young on Christian"s style is especially apparent. Young"s unique clarinet work is featured on several tracks at the disc"s conclusion, including a marvelous "I Want a Little Girl." The 75-minute playing time and excellent sound restoration make this an ideal introduction to Young"s music. --Stuart Broomer