Ensemble sound was more important than virtuosic, emotive soloing in the West Coast style known as "cool" jazz. Henry Mancini took a number of his cues from that mellow '50s sound when he scored the television crime-drama series, Peter Gunn. This soundtrack CD is full of memorable themes, lush textures, and succinct solos played by big band veterans. Vibraphonist Victor Feldman is heavily featured and his instrument's soft, ringing tone plays a key role here. Occasionally Mancini slips into turning out indistinctive, generic pieces, and soundtrack-composer-to-be John Williams's piano playing can be plinky and stiff. But other than that, this is top-notch TV soundtrack fare, highlighted by the irresistible, proto-surf-rock theme song. Instead of just filling up digital space, the bonus tracks really are a valuable addition. A growling trombone solo on "Walkin' Bass" and Shelly Manne's swinging drum work are just a couple of the reasons why. --Fred Cisterna
