Chet Baker
"The Best of Chet Baker Sings" (CD)

Chet Baker's career as an emissary of West Coast 'cool school' jazz is only partially reflected in this collection of songs. Even more absent is a sense of the tumultuous personal life that followed him around in the coming decades.

All of these songs were recorded between 1953 - '56, right around the time when he found fame while teaming up with Gerry Mulligan.
While known principally as a trumpet player (which he does on this record) there was a time where he was known as a jazz crooner, covering standards with a very mellow, gentle touch.

This career ambition was never received well by the hardcore jazz followers, but I, for one, think they're pretty nice and are the perfect way to spend a sunny morning.