The Ultimate Collection [EMI]

It's virtually impossible to pick up a bad Nat King Cole collection so consistent was his sound and tone, and this 16-track set is no exception, featuring delightful songs like "Embraceable You" and "Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby" as well as a wonderfully speedy take on "Sweet Georgia Brown" that shows off Cole's considerable jazz piano skills. If there is a problem here, it is that nothing really distinguishes this compilation from dozens just like it. It won't disappoint, but it won't be enough, either. ~ Steve Leggett