Given the makeup of the new Wynton Marsalis compilation, Standards and Ballads, its no surprise that the music contained therein lives up to the highest standards of its genre. Here you have one of the greatest living jazz trumpeters playing a collection of songs that have stood the test of time, many of them having existed as long as jazz itself, all accompanied by a revolving cast of first-rate musicians. Thankfully, the album proves delightful not only to the jazz purist but also to any listener looking for a good album of relaxing instrumental music.

The selections on Standards and Ballads were culled from Marsalis’ Columbia catalog dating from 1984 to 1997. Because of that, the disc features Marsalis in a number of different ensembles, occasionally with the inclusion of a string section. There is some impeccable playing from the various sidemen on the album, which includes a host of New Orleans natives. Especially notable is the ever-soulful Marcus Roberts on piano.

But it is truly Wynton’s playing that makes Standards and Ballads shine. His warm tone and deeply lyrical playing cut to the heart of the 14 tracks on the album. When he solos on “When It’s Sleepytime Down South” and “April in Paris,” the listener becomes aware of how deeply rooted Marsalis is in this music and how second nature it is for him to play these songs. Equally enjoyable are the lesser-known songs on the album, such as “Spring Yoaunde,” one of two Marsalis originals to make the cut, and the Thelonious Monk ballad, “Reflections.”

Musically speaking, Standards and Ballads treads little new ground. It is essentially an album of comfort jazz, relaxed and soulful music played with depth and precision by one of New Orleans most accomplished native sons.