Art Blakey was one of jazz's greatest drummers and bandleaders, known for his powerful, swinging playing and his mentorship of younger musicians through his Messengers group. This 10-disc compilation from Documents surveys his career, capturing him in various settings from live club dates to studio recordings spanning decades. Blakey's playing is characterized by his hard-driving swing, complex polyrhythmic approaches, and genuine soul. These recordings showcase him leading his own groups, sitting in with peers, and pushing younger players to higher levels. The set includes legendary live sessions and various studio contexts, all highlighting his impact on jazz drumming and bandleading. For anyone serious about understanding jazz history and the role of the drummer as bandleader and mentor, this comprehensive survey is invaluable. A thorough documentation of a true jazz institution.