If you know Doris Day only from her top forty hits, you haven't really heard her at her peak. This boxed set (and the other three in the series) comprise almost all of her singles and albums from Columbia Records. This boxed set has possibly her supreme achievement, "Duet" with Andre Previn. Singing with Previn's piano and occasionally a two-instrument rhythm section, Day is at her best. Some of the ballads--"Falling in Love Again" and "Remind Me"--are hauntingly beautiful. Her saucy, sassy rendition of "Close Your Eyes" is sheer joy. Notice the superb breathing control, marvelous phrasing, and clear, precise diction. Best of all, Day sings what the composers/lyricists wrote: no added notes, syllables, or words (are you listening BarBra?). The boxed sets may be pricey, but each is exceptional value--all of them contain multi-cd's and a hardbound book of interviews and a detailed recording history. Five stars isn't a high enough rating for these sets.

There has never been a singer who could put as much into a song as Doris Day, and that includes Ol Blue Eyes. If the song is happy or up lifting, you can bet Doris is right up there with it. Romantic, sad, that beautiful voice can convey the message and deliver the sermon as no body else can. I am a fan of many great singers, Clooney, Gorme, Streisand, Garland but, none can match the sheer beauty of the Doris Day voice. If you have not experienced the sound that comes from the singer or if you are looking for real music, by that I mean the correct balance/harmony of the right music, the right arrangement, and perfect singer, this is the set for you. This is a lost art. Just by listening to Doris you learn about life. Seize the monent. The only way you can go back in time to experience the good ol days is to go back in your mind. Listening to this set will do it for you.

Bear Family preceded this box with three others of similar superior quality in both performance and presentation. Shame Doris stopped recording in 1967, it would be a joy to hear her take on ballads of more modern times. One of the purest voices of any genre.