The Dixieland Jazz DVD is by far the best we've seen in the America's Music Legacy series, which is ironic considering how misunderstood and marginalized a form of music this collection features. People under the age of 30, outside of New Orleans, have almost no idea what the phrase "Dixieland" means other than an archaic term for the Old South. People over 30 have a better understanding of the phrase as being about a musical tradition from the early days of jazz, centered around New Orleans. Host Al Hirt goes even further by helping educate the audience on various flavors of music that emerged from the movement we call Dixieland Jazz.

Just as most American Jews prefer that label over "Jewish Americans," it's important to recognize that dixieland is first and foremost jazz, a small subset in the larger history of jazz. Looking at the roster of musicians on this chapter of America's Music Legacy, it's filled with what people would consider jazz and blues greats, like Woody Herman, Bob Crosby, or Della Reese. There are also artists here that have a special interest and notoriety in dixieland jazz, such as Teddy Buckner, Scotty Plummer, or Irma Thomas. The latter group isn't as well known, but they turn in strong performances. More than almost any other collection in this series, America's Music Legacy: Dixieland Jazz has aged well. The songs and the stories behind the songs feel timeless, and the musicianship across the board is high. Hirt takes the stage several times and showcases his impressive ability on trumpet, paired with Della Reese in a fantastic rendition of "Man With A Horn," and leading his All-Star Band for several classics like "Bill Bailey" and "Bourbon Street Paradise."

Noticeably missing from the occasion are established repertoire groups like the Preservation Hall Jazz Band or any member of the Marsalis family. Perhaps they were approached and didn't like the format, but it goes without saying that New Orleans and most big cities in America have a dedicated contingent of dixieland stylists. For listeners that appreciate this music, America's Music Legacy: Dixieland Jazz is a pure pleasure, and it's a great education for folks that may only have a passing interest and want to learn more.