If you're still wondering what to buy that certain someone for Christmas, the entertainment industry is more than happy to offer as suggestions myriad music CDs — many of them already in boxes.
Here are reviews by Deseret News staffers of recently released box sets and greatest-hits albums, which we hope may help you choose among the many selections on store racks this season.
GREATEST HITS
ABC; "Look of Love: the Very Best of ABC" (Mercury). *** — When new-wave fever hit the 1980s with a flash of day-glo and glitter, ABC was one of the bands that spread the word. Led by Martin Fry, the group released four Top 40 hits — two in the Top 10 — and found itself on heavy MTV rotation. "The Look of Love," "Poison Arrow," "Be Near Me," "(How to Be a) Millionaire" and "When Smokey Sings," Fry's tribute to Smokey Robinson, solidified ABC as a big-league hitter. When the '80s ended, ABC, contrary to popular belief, continued making music. The inclusion of "Blame," which was written last year, shows the group still has it where it counts. — Scott Iwasaki
BRYAN ADAMS; "The Best of Me" (A&M) ** 1/2 — So where's "Straight From the Heart?" Without that song, Bryan Adams wouldn't have wanted to record the No. 1 ballads "Heaven," "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" and "All for One," which was a trio with Sting and Rod Stewart. Those songs are part of this collection, as are Adams' rockers — "Summer of '69" and "Run to You." But "Straight from the Heart" is not — and the catchy "Cuts Like a Knife" is AWOL as well. — S.I.
GREGG ALLMAN; "The Best of Gregg Allman" (Mercury). ** 1/2— The co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman, embarked on a solo career after the death of his brother Duane. This collection shows Gregg trying to recapture the spirit and magic of his former band. Remakes of "Midnight Rider," "Please Call Home" and a live version of "Dreams" are intermixed with Gregg's "Queen of Hearts," "Please Call Home" and Jackson Browne's "These Days." — S.I.
GREGG ALLMAN; "I'm No Angel: The Best of Gregg Allman" (Epic/Legacy). *** — Don't confuse this Gregg Allman "Best of" with the one above; this one has been touted as the only official "Best of Gregg Allman" album overseen by Allman himself. The album boasts the tracks "I'm No Angel," "Brother to Brother" and a previously unreleased live version of "Melissa." Two other cuts — "Hopelessly Miss You" and a live recording of "These Days" — make their public debut on this disc. — S.I.
ANITA BAKER; "The Best of Anita Baker" (Atlantic/Rhino). *** — Before Toni Braxton, there was Anita Baker. Taking her cue from the likes of Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Nancy Wilson, Anita Baker's smooth controlled jazzy delivery hit the airwaves from '83 to '94. Her most successful single, "Giving You the Best That I've Got," hit No. 3 in 1988. In 1994, she won her first and only Grammy Award for the single "I Apologize." Her voice is strong, distinct and emotional on all the tracks including "Angel," "Sweet Love," "You Bring Me Joy" and "Fairy Tales." This is one of the few "Best of" albums that is just that. — S.I.
BELL BIV DEVOE; "The Best of Bell Biv DeVoe" (MCA). ** 1/2— Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins and Ronnie DeVoe found fame with Bobby Brown and Ralph Tresvant in New Edition. Once the guys reached puberty, New Edition's sound (voices) changed. So, the three left to pursue a more "mature" style. It seems that three was a magic number for the trio. Night clubs rocked the summer of 1990 with the No. 3 hits "Poison" and "Do Me!" while pop radio picked up "B.B.D. (I Thought It Was Me)?" And for three years, the group cranked out hit after hit with ""When Will I See You Smile Again?" "Dope! (a k a She's Dope!)," "Gangsta" and "Something in Your Eyes." Catch those songs on this package and relive the early '90s dance houses. — S.I.
BELLY; "Sweet Ride: the Best of Belly" (Sire/Rhino). ***— Sometimes quirky but always innovative Rhode Island-based singer/songwriter/guitarist Tanya Donelly had something going for a while during the mid '90s with her band Belly. This collection of songs is mostly B-sides, with a few singles such as "Feed the Tree," "Seal My Fate" and "Gepetto." The mix of pop beats and
grinding guitars fill such rare tracks as "Lilith" and a live version of "Dusted." One ear-catcher is the Bellyfied take on Jimi Hendrix's "Are You Experienced?" which was recorded for the Hendrix tribute album "Stone Free." — S.I.
BLUES TRAVELER; "Travelogue: Blues Traveler Classics" (A&M). ***— Led by mouth harpist/singer John Popper, Blues Traveler rolled through the '90s with it's unique brand of jamming road-trip tunes. This 17-song CD contains the best: "Run-Around," "But Anyway," "Love & Greed," "Hook," etc. — S.I.
BODEANS; "Slash and Burn: the Best of the BoDeans" (London/Slash/Rhino). ** 1/2— Kurt Neumann and Sam Llanas, the core of the heartland pop group BoDeans, are still making music. But the time is right for this compilation that includes fan favorites from the group's Slash Records catalog. The jumpy "She's a Runaway," the reggae-influenced "Still the Night (Live)" and the road-trip anthem "Only One" are a few choice cuts that made this compilation. Other live tunes include "Say About Love," "Paradise" and "Idaho," which are interspersed among studio tracks "The Ballad of Jenny Rae," "Good Things" and "Closer to Free." — S.I.
MARC BOLAN & T. REX; "20th Century Boy: The Ultimate Collection" (Hip-O) *** — Where's "Dock of the Bay?" That would have been nice. Of course "Bang a Gong (Get It On)," "Born to Boogie," "Mystic Lady" and "Summertime Blues" have to be on this album. But "Dock of the Bay" should have been included with such pre-dawn Bolan works as "Debora," "One Inch Rock" and "King of the Rumbling Spires." They're here, but "Dock . . . " isn't — S.I.
EDIE BRICKELL & NEW BOHEMIANS; "Ultimate Collection" (Hip-O/Geffen). ***— While the reggae flair of "What I Am," hit the Top 10 in 1988, Bricknell and her band New Bohemians became the spokesband for college radio. Although her follow-up tune, "Circle," didn't hit as high, Brickell was a fresh voice in the days of hair metal. This 19-song album offers the group's most dynamic work. Bob Dylan's "A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall," which was featured on the soundtrack to "Born on the Fourth of July," and "Zillionaire," which featured bassist Rob Wasserman and the late Grate(ful) Jerry Garcia, are other highlights. — S.I.
ROY BUCHANAN; "The Best of Roy Buchanan" (Polydor) ***— One of the most underrated guitarists was Roy Buchanan. The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, the late Jerry Garcia, Dale Hawkins and Ronnie Hawkins have all cried praises to the musician. From 1972-1986, Buchanan, who took his own life in 1988, released 10 albums, all ranked in the low 100s of the Top 200 charts. His sophomore effort, titled "Second Album," peaked at No. 86. Still, that didn't stop him from gaining respect from his contemporaries. This collection features a slick rendition of "C.C. Ryder," as well as his own "Sweet Dreams," "Pete's Blue" and "The Messiah Will Come." — S.I.
J.J. CALE; "The Very Best of J.J. Cale" (Mercury) *** 1/2— Devoted Eric Clapton fans undoubtedly know J.J. Cale, who was Clapton's musical mentor. In fact, if it weren't for Cale, Clapton would never have recorded such trademark tunes as "Cocaine" and "After Midnight," both written by Cale. Come to think of it, Lynyrd Skynyrd owes Cale a nod for penning "Call Me the Breeze." This 11-song album features some emotive blues from Cale's years with Mercury Records. — S.I.
THE CARPENTERS; "Carpenters" (A&M). **— Another 12-cut superficial 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection, surprisingly without some expected material (no "For All We Know" or "We've Only Just Begun," for example). But you will find "Yesterday Once More," "Bless the Beasts and the Children," "Top of the World," "Goodbye to Love." . . . However, there are so many more complete collections of Karen and Richard Carpenter's '70s hits available, it's hard to recommend this one. — Chris Hicks
THE CRANBERRIES; "Stars: the Best of 1992-2002" (Island). ** 1/2— The problem with the sequencing on this album is that the well-known hits are all positioned at the beginning. "Dreams," "Linger," "Zombie" and "Ode to My Family" roll off the top one after another. It would have been better off to have moved the songs around. Putting "Zombie" between "You & Me" and "Analyse" would have worked and helped move the album along. As it stands, a majority of listeners will probably wear out the first three tracks before they even listen to the other tunes. — S.I.
ROBERT CRAY; "The Best of Robert Cray" (Mercury). ***— So, where's his 1988 hit "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark"? If this is a "Best of Robert Cray" album, that song needs to be here. Still, there's "Right Next Door (Because of Me)" and the table-thumping "Smoking Gun" and Albert King's "You're Gonna Need Me." Blues guitarist Cray was instrumental in revitalizing the blues scene during the new-wave pop-drenched '80s. And, while "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" has been left off this album, such songs as "These Things," "I Was Warned" and "Holdin' On" show why he brought the blues back into perspective. — S.I.
CROSBY & NASH; "The Best of Crosby & Nash: the ABC Years" (MCA). ** 1/2— David Crosby and Graham Nash are half of Crosby Stills Nash & Young. MCA has compiled some of the duo's best songs from the ABC label. Top 100 charting singles "Carry Me" and "Out of the Darkness" capture the intricate harmonies of the two singer/songwriters. But "Wind on the Water," culled from a longer work, "To the Last Whale . . ." was the duo's top work, peaking at No. 6 in 1975. In addition, "Homeward Through the Haze" and "Broken Bird" and live versions of "Immigration Man," "Lee Shore" and the Crosby-penned trademark "Deja Vu" are here in remastered glory. — S.I.
XAVIER CUGAT; "The Original Latin Dance King" (Columbia/Legacy). ***— The 26 cuts here are a wonderful representation of what Xavier Cugat was all about as the first U.S. Latin-music star, long before he became a campy icon of the '70s upon marrying Charo (he was 66; she was 18). The tunes range from "Babalu" to various mambos and rhumbas, and feature such singers as Tito Rodriguez and the wonderful Abbe Lane, covering Cugat's career from 1941 to 1955. — C.H.
DEEP PURPLE; "The Best of Deep Purple" (Mercury). **— This is just a compilation of some of Deep Purple's best songs that were included on Mercury Records releases, issued in the classic Deep Purple reunion album "Perfect Strangers" in 1984. Warner Bros. works such as "Woman from Tokyo," "Speed King," "Hush" and the band's take on Neil Diamond's "Kentucky Woman" aren't here because of licensing issues. However, there are live versions of "Black Knight," "Child in Time" and the obligatory "Smoke on the Water." — S.I.
DIXIE DREGS; "The Best of the Dixie Dregs" (Mercury). ***— With a band-leader/guitarist/songwriter like Steve Morse, this band should have gotten more recognition. Sure, it's received a newfound surge of popularity thanks to Morse's gigs with Kansas and, currently, Deep Purple. This compilation spotlights some of Morse's brilliant works with Dixie Dregs. "Free Fall," "Refried Funky Chicken," from "Free Fall" album; "What If" and "Ice Cakes" from "What If" and Punk Sandwich" and "Long Slow Distance" from "Night of the Dixie Dregs," offer a glimpse of where Morse was heading. — S.I.
EXTREME; "The Best of Extreme" (A&M). ** 1/2 — Before Gary Cherone joined Van Halen for the dismal "Van Halen III" album in 1998, he was the voice for Extreme. Unlike other hair-metal bands, Extreme had solid talent, including guitarist Nuno Bettencourt. Hard-rocking energy can be found in "Kid Ego," "Decadence Dance" and the dance-floor groove of "Get the Funk Out." But most people will remember the acoustic ballad "No More Words," which was the beginning of the end. While it tried to rediscover the rock groove with "Hip Today," the damage was done. — S.I.
FAIRPORT CONVENTION; "The Best of Fairport Convention" (A&M). ***— Two years ago, A&M records released a couple of "Best of" packages from Fairport Convention founder Richard Thompson and the late Sandy Denny. This year marks the first time a Fairport Convention "Best of " is released through the "Millennium Collection" series. Although the Celtic-inspired folk group didn't have any charting hits, the musicality is superb, and, thanks to Denny's dreamy vocals, the songs "Meet on the Ledge," "Genesis Hall," "Come All Ye" and a take on Bob Dylan's "Percy's Song" are glowing standouts. — S.I.
FOREIGNER; "Complete Greatest Hits" (Atlantic/Rhino). **— This is a single-CD version of the two-CD box set "Juke Box Heroes," released in 2000. And "Complete Greatest Hits" reiterates the fact that Foreigner's stronger tunes were the early ones. "Feels Like the First Time," "Cold as Ice," "Hot Blooded," "Double Vision," "Blue Morning Blue Day," "Women" and "Head Games" rule. But "I Want to Know What Love Is," "Say You Will," "I Don't Want to Live Without You," "That Was Yesterday" and "Heart Turns to Stone" sound tired. A better hits collection is 1982's "Records," which didn't include any of the new songs. — S.I.
FREE; "The Best of Free" (A&M). ***— Before the supergroup Bad Company came along, drummer Simon Kirke and singer Paul Rodgers were Free. Classic blues-rock staples "All Right Now" and "The Stealer" are what a majority of radio listeners remember from this London-based group. But more innovative works, such as "Walk in My Shadow," "Fire and Water," "Catch a Train" and "Heavy Load," are the real sparklers here. — S.I.
JOHNNY GILL; "Ultimate Collection" (Hip-O/Motown). ***— Gill will always be remembered as the guy who replaced Bobby Brown in New Edition in 1988. But before that, Gill was well on his way to making a name for himself. Four years prior to joining NE, he had a hit duet with Stacy Lattisaw called "Perfect Combination" and a rhythm-and-blues chart topper "Can You Stand the Rain." His well-schooled vocals blended with the smooth arrangements by such high-profile producers as L.A. Reid, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmunds and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Johnny Gill's best is definitely found on this "Ultimate Collection." — S.I.
GUY; "Groove Me: The Very Best of Guy" (MCA). ** — With dance-easy New Jack singles, such as "I Like," "I Wanna Get With U" and "Let's Chill," Guy — with Teddy Riley, Damon Hall and Aaron Hall — found minor success in 1989. Those songs are worthy to be a three-song greatest-hits EP. But the other 13 tracks, including "My Fantasy," are nothing but filler. — S.I.
TIM HARDIN; "The Best of Tim Hardin" (Polydor). ** 1/2 — It's a shame that the late Tim Hardin's only Top 100 charting tune, "Simple Song of Freedom," written by Bobby Darin (it hit No. 50 in 1969), isn't on this 12-song collection. Instead, such songs as "Don't Make Promises," "Green Rocky Road" and a jazzy take on "Misty Roses" are here, as well as his own version of "If I Were a Carpenter," a song which, ironically, Hardin wrote for Darin, who took it to No. 8 in 1966. — S.I.
JIMI HENDRIX; "Smash Hits" (Experience Hendrix/MCA). **** — The Experience Hendrix reissues continue with this 1968 compilation that gave U.S. fans a few new tracks: "Stone Free," "Can You See Me" and "Remember." Those songs weren't on any Hendrix album up to that point. But the rest, including the three definitive hits "Purple Haze," "Foxey Lady" and "Fire," are here in remastered glory. Also "All Along the Watchtower," "Crosstown Traffic" and the tender "Wind Cries Mary." — S.I.
BILLIE HOLIDAY; "The Best of Billie Holiday" (Hip-O/Verve). ***— The 12 cuts here are typical of the 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection series; far from comprehensive but a nice introductory primer for those unfamiliar with the artist. The jazz/blues singer Billie Holiday was, of course, one of a kind, and most of her best-known songs are here: "Strange Fruit," "Lover Man," " 'Tain't Nobody's Bizness If I Do," "Lady Sings the Blues," "God Bless the Child" and a live concert cut of "I Cover the Waterfront." Not bad, and if it prompts someone to look for a more complete Holiday album, that's all to the good. — C.H.
IRON MAIDEN; "Edward the Great" (Sanctuary). ***— Named after the metal band's beloved mascot, "Edward the Great" is touted as a musical rundown of the band's 25-year career. But there are some gaping omissions. The lack of "Killers" and "Wrathchild" only shows that this 16-song CD is focused on lead singer Bruce Dickinson's tenure with the band. None of original singer Paul D'ianno or Dickinson's one-time replacement Blaze Bailey's works are here. But classics, such as "Run to the Hills," "The Trooper," "Flight of Icarus" and "Can I Play With Madness," are accounted for. And more recent creations "Man on the Edge," "The Wicker Man" and a live version of "Fear of the Dark" round out this rockin' set. — S.I.
KISS; "The Very Best of Kiss" (Mercury/UTV). * — There are at least four Kiss "greatest-hits" albums out there. This is just another remarket ploy to get fans to buy yet another Kiss compilation. All the staples from the overplayed "Rock and Roll All Nite" to the ballad "Beth" and discoesque "I Was Made for Lovin' You" to the sappy megaproduced "Forever" and "God Gave Rock and Roll to You II" are all here. It's a good thing "Detroit Rock City" has been included, because "Cold Gin" and "Plaster Caster" aren't. — S.I.
PEGGY LEE; "The Best of Peggy Lee" (MCA/Decca). ***— These Lee selections include some great songs: "Just One of Those Things," "Black Coffee," "He Needs Me" — even "The Siamese Cat Song" from Disney's "Lady and the Tramp." A pretty good 20th Century Masters Millennium primer for those unfamiliar with Lee's early work. — C.H.
RAMSEY LEWIS; "The Best of Ramsey Lewis (Chess/MCA). ***— Another 12-track 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection, with Lewis' most recognizable piano tunes: "The 'In' Crowd," "Hang On Sloopy," "High Heel Sneakers," "Wade in the Water" . . . even "A Hard Day's Night." Just try to sit still while listening to this. — C.H.
BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS; "Legend" (Tuff Gong/Island Records). ** 1/2 — The "Bob Marley album everyone owns" has been re-issued with two more songs, "Easy Skanking" and "Punky Reggae Party." And while both are welcome additions, "Legend" still loses a couple of points for the inclusion of an inferior live version of "No Woman No Cry" and the overproduced remix of "Buffalo Soldiers." — Jeff Vice
BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS; "Natural Mystic: The Legend Lives On" (Tuff Gong/Island Records). **** — The "Bob Marley album everyone should own" has been re-issued with one additional song, "Positive Vibration." The song selection here is much stronger than "Legend" (how can you quibble with a hits collection that includes both "War" and "Roots, Rock, Reggae?"). — J.V.
AARON NEVILLE; "The Best of Aaron Neville" (A&M). ** — Aaron Neville, the big man with the tender voice, deserves more than this Millennium Collection, which only spans his A&M years, but managed to include his 1966 breakthrough No. 2 single "Tell It Like It Is." Still, it skips out on "Don't Know Much," the 1989 No. 2 duet with Linda Ronstadt, and the Top 20 hit "All My Life." However, "Everybody Plays the Fool" and "Don't Take Away My Heaven" are here — but not "When Something Is Wrong With My Baby." — S.I.
OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN; "One Woman's Live Journey" (ONJ/Hip-O). ****
OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN; "The Best of Olivia Newton-John (Hip-O). ***— The 21 cuts on "One Woman's Journey" offer a nice overview of Olivia Newton-John's career, and hearing them performed live in a concert setting is just a bonus. Newton-John's voice, presence and personality come through and the album ranges from nostalgic to contemporary. OK, it starts off with "Xanadu," but it also includes most of her hits, from "I Honestly Love You" to "Let's Get Physical," and a few nice unexpected treats include "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "Jolene."
The 12 cuts in the 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection "Best of" are hit songs in their original form ("Let Me Be There," "I Honestly Love You," "Let's Get Physical," etc.), with a few tunes ("Heart Attack," "A Little More Love," a pair of duets) that are missing from "Live Journey." — C.H.
NIRVANA; "Nirvana" (DGC). **** — The wait is over. The new Nirvana tune, "You Know You're Right," recorded four months before singer/guitarist Kurt Cobain's suicide, is finally on the CD racks. After months of litigation with Cobain's widow, Courtney Love, the band's surviving members — Krist Novoselic and David Grohl — found victory and released the song as the kick-off to this greatest-hits compilation. The song is good, and so is the album. Early tunes "About a Girl" and "Silver" show a timelessness when juxtaposed with more recent works "Smells Like Team Spirit," "Dumb" and the unplugged "All Apologies." — S.I.
PHIL OCHS; "The Best of Phil Ochs" (A&M). *** — From his beginnings in the '60s Greenwich folk scene to his suicide in 1976, Phil Ochs made a counterculture name for himself with his intricate protest songs. None made the charts, but they found their way into the stream of civil rights and anti-Vietnam gatherings. This collection includes some of his more heartfelt writings, including "Flower Lady," "The Crucifixion," "No More Songs," and a live version of "I Ain't Marchin' Anymore." His velvety voice and poignant chamber-style arrangements were full of passion, and this album shows him at his best. — S.I.
OINGO BOINGO; "The Best of Oingo Boingo" (MCA). *** — This "Best of" album of filmscore composer Danny Elfman's former band is less complete than 1999's double CD "Anthology," but the important songs are here: "Dead Man's Party," "Only a Lad," "We Close Our Eyes," "Weird Science," "Grey Matter" and "Just Another Day," to name a few. — S.I.
DONNY OSMOND; "The Best of Donny Osmond" (Polydor). ** 1/2 — The more successful member of the Osmond siblings was a pin-up idol in the '70s. And his music was all over AM radio. And while he now hosts the new "$20,000 Pyramid," he will always be known as a pop singer. "Go Away Little Girl," "Puppy Love," "Too Young" and "Sweet and Innocent" highlight this hits collection. But you won't find "Soldier of Love." — S.I.
DONNY & MARIE OSMOND; "The Best of Donny & Marie" (Polydor). ** 1/2 — The sibling rivalry was always a nice card to play. And Donny usually ended up looking like the fool. But times change. This 12-song "Best Of" compilation includes "I'm Leaving It All Up to You," "Let It Be Me," and "Make the World Go Away," which bring back memories of purple socks and fringy costumes. But where's "I'm a Little Bit Country (I'm a Little Bit Rock and Roll)"? — S.I.
THE OSMONDS; "The Best of the Osmonds" (Polydor). ** 1/2 — If you don't think the Osmonds could rock, put on "Crazy Horses" and eat your words. Then take a listen to "One Bad Apple" and hear Donny plead for his girl to give him one more chance. Sure, the Osmonds had that squeaky-clean image, but they were the Backstreet Boys of their time, and they wrote their own music for most of their hits. "Down by the Lazy River," "Hold Her Tight," "Goin' Home" and "Let Me In," were their own. And they did have success with others' works, such as "Yo-Yo," "Love Me for a Reason" and "The Proud One." But the Osmond's version of "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" is the gem of this compilation. — S.I.
PARLIAMENT; "Funked Up: The Very Best of Parliament" (Mercury). *** 1/2 — Take a trip to "Chocolate City" with the bass-heavy grooves of Parliament. This greatest-hits compilation is 16 songs deep and features "Do That Stuff," "Dr. Funkenstein" and the dance craze "Flash Light." And thrown in for good measure are "Ride On," "Mothership Connection" and "Bop Gun." — S.I.
JOHNNY PAYCHECK; "The Soul & the Edge: The Best of Johnny Paycheck. ***— The rowdy delivery of Johnny Paycheck (Donald Eugene Lytle) can only be rivaled by Hank Williams, Jr. Before you pass Paycheck off as just the guy who sang the novelty hit "Take This Job and Shove It," think again. He reached into the working-class psyche and pulled out some sentimental efforts, too: "My Part of Forever," "I Did the Right Thing," "The Outlaw's Prayer" and "Old Violin." — S.I.
PEACHES & HERB; "The Best of Peaches & Herb" (Polydor). ** — The third incarnation of Peaches & Herb was the more successful. And this CD focuses on that duo. Herb Feemster had originally teamed with Francine Barker, who was replaced by Marlene Mack. In 1977, Linda Greene came on board, and, with Feemster, released the disco hit "Shake Your Groove Thing" and the mushy ballad "Reunited." This duo was also responsible for "I Pledge My Love" and "Roller-Skatin' Mate." Look for those songs on this release, but you won't find "Close Your Eyes," "The Ten Commandments of Love" and the original "United." — S.I.
ELVIS PRESLEY; "Elvis: 30 #1 Hits" (RCA). **** — It can't be Christmas without Elvis. And just in time for this holiday Season, the King (at least the King's estate and record company) has bestowed another gift of music on his faithful subjects. RCA records has compiled and released "Elvis: 30 #1 Hits." Starting with his first hit "Heartbreak Hotel" and concluding with "Way Down," the album does the man justice. However, let it be known that not all the songs hit No. 1 on the United States Top 100 Charts. "Way Down" was No. 1 in the United Kingdom and only peaked at No. 18 stateside. Likewise, "Wooden Heart" never hit the U.S. charts but landed at No. 1 in the U.K. Still, the album is a fine mosaic of Elvis' most popular works, and includes a newly found work, "A Little Less Conversation." — S.I.
LLOYD PRICE; "The Best of Lloyd Price" (MCA). ***— It had been a while since I'd heard Price's strong voice and simple arrangements, and this album brought back a flood of memories. "Stagger Lee" and "Personality" are his best-known songs, and they bookend this generally enjoyable collection of 12 from 20th Century Masters Millennium. — C.H.
RAMONES; "Loud, Fast Ramones: Their Toughest Hits" (Sire/Rhino Records). *** 1/2 — It's debatable whether any collection that contains the songs "Do You Remember Rock 'n' Roll Radio?" "I Believe in Miracles" and "Strength to Endure" can really be called "Toughest." But unlike previous Ramones anthologies, the song selection is strong. Plus, the eight-song, live bonus disc makes it enticing for those who already have all the albums. — J.V.
RAY, GOODMAN & BROWN; "The Best of Ray, Goodman & Brown" (Polydor). *** — The late Harry Ray, along with Al Goodman and Billy Brown, formed a trio out of the ashes of the early '70s vocal group the Moments. The trio's first album, "Look at Me," was released in 1980 and spawned the smooth jam hit "Inside of You." Other singles, such as "Happy Anniversary," "My Prayer" and the Top 5 hit "Special Lady," were some of the sentimental songs that inspired such groups as Tony! Toni! Ton! and Boyz II Men. All those songs are on this compilation, as well as "Stay," "Another Day" and "After All." — S.I.
READY FOR THE WORLD; "The Best of Ready for the World" (MCA). * — If the title were true, it'd only include three songs — "Oh, Sheila," "Digital Display" and "Love You Down." Although the Prince look-alikes hit the R&B charts with "Ceramic Girl," "Slide Over," "Straight Down to Business" and "Deep Inside Your Love." And those have been remastered for this package, but there is still no substance to the arrangements. — S.I.
SAVOY BROWN; "The Best of Savoy Brown" (Polydor). ***— For 36 years, Savoy Brown has been burning in the background as one of the premiere English blues-rock bands. Ten Years After and early Fleetwood Mac have been called Savoy Brown proteges. While only two songs, "I'm Tired" and "Tell Mama," even hit the charts, the band's cutting lead guitars paved the way for the clean leads of Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi. This 11-song CD features the cream of Savoy Brown's tune list, including "A Hard Way to Go," "Poor Girl" and "Hellbound Train." — S.I.
SCORPIONS; "Bad for Good: the Very Best of the Scorpions" (Hip-O). ***— The Scorpions, one of the frontrunners of the new wave of European heavy-metal groups, is still alive and kicking. Most everyone knows the peace ballad "Wind of Change" and the anthemic "Rock You Like a Hurricane." And true to denim-and-leather form, the band has included a couple of new tracks — "Bad for Good" and "Cause I Love You" — to bring the band into the 21st century. Inclusion of "Don't Stop at the Top" would have made this album complete. — S.I.
PETE SEEGER; "Pete Seeger's Greatest Hits" (Columbia). ****— This re-release of the original 1967 album contains some bonus tracks — "Waist Deep in the Big Muddy," "Barbara Allen," "This Land Is Your Land" and "Michael Row the Boat Ashore." Don't worry; the Seeger trademarks "Little Boxes," "Where Have All the Flowers Gone?" and "Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)" are intact, along with "Wimoweh (Mbube)," "We Shall Overcome" and "Guantanamera." — S.I.
SELENA; "Ones" (EMI Latin). ***— The original Madonna of Latin music, Selena Quintanilla Perez, was tragically murdered by the president of her fan club in 1995. Since then, the Grammy Award-winning singer has been the subject of a bio-pic, a load of books and, most recently, the subject of a musical-catalog reissue. "Ones" is a sidebar to that series, and it collects 20 of her best works including "No Quiero Saber," "No Me Queda Mas," "Tu, Solo Tu," and her English songs "I Could Fall in Love" and "Dreaming of You." This package also features an additional CD that is actually a DVD of her 13 videos. — S.I.
THE SHANGRI-LAS; "The Best of the Shangri-Las" (Mercury). ***— Those who grew up the '60s know all the words . . . whether or not they admit it. And of all that era's "girl groups," few have songs as memorable as these "Leader of the Pack," "He Cried," "Sweet Sounds of Summer," "Remember (Walkin' in the Sand)." Another 20th Century Masters Millennium collection of 12, with great big-hair photos inside. — C.H.
WILL SMITH; "Greatest Hits" (Columbia). *** — Agent J, James West and the Fresh Prince have one thing in common — Will Smith. And he's got a load of hits from those roles. This 15-song greatest-hits CD contains "Men in Black," "Wild Wild West" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air." It also features non-soundtrack hits "A Nightmare on My Street," "Gettin' Jiggy Wit It," "Nod Ya Head," "Parents Just Don't Understand" and an extended mix of "Girls Ain't Nothing But Trouble." — S.I.
SOFT CELL; "The Very Best of Soft Cell" (Mercury). *** 1/2 — Love 'em or leave 'em, Soft Cell's vocalist Marc Almond and synth/guitarist David James Ball managed to blend goth and new wave with brooding fun. "Tainted Love," "Sex Dwarf," "Torch" and "Down in the Subway" are haunting, and somewhat co-dependent, gems. This album contains a remix of "Tainted Love," and two new recordings — "Somebody, Somewhere, Sometimes" and "Divided Soul." — S.I.
SOUL COUGHING; "Lust in Phaze: The Best of Soul Coughing" (Slash/Rhino Records). *** —Those really looking for the "best" of this now-defunct, art-funk/pop act should look no further than its debut album, 1994's "Ruby Vroom." Still, the remix of "Super Bon Bon" rivals the studio version (also included in this collection), and the liner notes contain some sly allusions to label meddling. — J.V.
STING & THE POLICE; "The Very Best of Sting & the Police" (A&M/UTV). *** 1/2 — For fans of Sting and the Police, this compilation is a dream come true. The idea of combining the hits of Sting (born Gordon Sumner) and his band the Police is a great idea. But there's the question of how the other two Police men (drummer Stewart Copland and guitarist Andy Summers) feel about it. Police tunes "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle," "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and "Every Breath You Take" are intertwined with Sting solo selections "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free," "Fields of Gold," "Desert Rose" and "Brand New Day." It works, but wouldn't you think Sting would want his own "Very Best-of" collection?— S.I.
STYX; "The Best of Styx" (A&M). * — Styx fans need to avoid this album at all costs. Go get "Styx Greatest Hits" and "Styx Greatest Hits Vol. 2," instead. In fact, you may even get more joy from "The Best of Styx," which was released on RCA/Wooden Nickel before the Chicago-based band switched to A&M. This CD offers nothing new. Classic tunes "Come Sail Away," "Too Much Time on My Hands," "Babe," "Show Me the Way" and "The Best of Times" are here, and so are "Mr. Roboto," "Lorelei" and "Fooling Yourself." But those songs are already on "Styx Greatest Hits." And what's more, this new compilation doesn't have "Renegade," a song that is a must for true Styx fans.— S.I.
SUBLIME; "The Best of Sublime" (Skunk/MCA Records). *** — Finally there's a solid, start-to-finish Sublime album. And yes, the choices of songs are fairly obvious and probably a bit uninspired (despite the guest appearance by Gwen Stefani on "Saw Red," it's one of the band's weakest songs). But at least this hits collection does give an accurate picture of what the pop/hip-hop/reggae act was like in its heyday.— J.V.
UNCLE TUPELO; "89/93: An Anthology" (Columbia/Legacy Records). *** 1/2 — As nice as it is to have some of this material remastered — as well as finally hear such rarities as the cover of "I Wanna Be Your Dog" — no anthology can really do justice to this defunct St. Louis alt-country act, which spawned both Son Volt and Wilco. Real fans are advised to wait for the remastered versions of the actual studio albums (coming next year). — J.V.
GINO VANELLI; "The Best of Gino Vanelli" (A&M). *— The crooner with the big hair was only a minor player on the charts. "Living Inside Myself" and "I Just Wanna Stop" reached No. 6 and 4, respectively. But his other hits — "Wheels of Life," "Love of My Life" and "People Gotta Move" — didn't even make the Top 20. And those aren't the only ones on this album. Non-charters include "Crazy Life," "The River Must Flow" and "Powerful People," which, we could say, are better than his charters. — S.I.
VARIOUS ARTISTS; "The Best of Doo Wop" (Hip-O). **— The Platters' "Only You," The Moonglows' "Ten Commandments of Love" and others make up the 12 tracks on this 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection. An OK superficial collection; far from comprehensive. — C.H.
VARIOUS ARTISTS; "The Best of Motown 1980s, Vol. 1," " . . . Vol. 2 (Motown). **— Two more 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection discs (sold separately) with 12 songs each. The artists range from Diana Ross, the Temptations and Michael Jackson to El Debarge and . . . Bruce Willis? The song choices are suspect, as well. — C.H.
WANG CHUNG; "The Best of Wang Chung" (Geffen). ** 1/2 — This collection is one of the few greatest-hits albums that features all the band's hits. Nothing has been left off. Everything from "Everybody Have Fun Tonight," "Dance Hall Days" and "Let's Go!" to "Hypnotize Me," "To Live and Die in L.A.." "Don't Be My Enemy," "Praying to a New God" and "Don't Let Go" are all here. — S.I.
DINAH WASHINGTON; "The Best of Dinah Washington" (Hip-O). ***— You've heard her hit "What a Diff'rence a Day Made" (or "Makes," if you prefer the 45 rpm version), but you won't go wrong with any of the 12 cuts on this 20th Century Masters Millennium collection (which includes two duets with Brook Benton). A nice sampler of Washington's range, from simple bluesy arrangements ("You Don't Know What Love Is") to more playful jaunts ("September in the Rain") to her wonderful, singular version of "Unforgettable." — C.H.
KITTY WELLS; "The Best of Kitty Wells" (MCA/Decca). ***— Wells was the definitive honky-tonk singer whose staple was a catalog of songs about wronged women, and she had great success in the '50s and '60s with hits ranging from "Release Me" to "You Don't Hear," and one of her earliest, the then-controversial "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels." She may sound rather quaint by today's standards but ask your granddad about her — Wells was the queen of country in her day. A 12-track 20th Century Masters Millennium Collection. — C.H.
STEVIE WONDER; "The Definitive Collection" (Motown). ***— With 21 "Wonder"-ful hits, this "Definitive Collection" spans the career of one of Motown's most diverse singer/songwriters. Stevie Wonder hit the scene in 1963, at the tender age of 13, with "Fingertips (Part 2)," a song that shot straight up to No. 1. And from there, everything he touched charted or turned to gold. These songs, including "Hey Love," "My Cherie Amour," "Signed Sealed Delivered I'm Yours," "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," "Superstition," "Sir Duke," "Masterblaster (Jammin')" and "I Just Called to Say I Love You," have been gathered to show the world that Wonder is, indeed, a wonder. — S.I.
WARREN ZEVON; "Genius: the Best of Warren Zevon" (Elektra/Rhino). ***— It's been a couple of months since Warren Zevon announced he has terminal cancer. And though this album was recently released, it wasn't to capitalize on the tragedy. And that's a good thing, because the music is great. Sure, he only had two Top 100 hits — "Werewolves of London" and "Certain Girl" — but he has a knack for songwriting. Zevon can make you want to dance ("Poor Poor Pitiful Me") or cry with his honest lyrics ("Carmelita," "Detox Mansion"). He will be remembered for "Werewolves . . ." but his other songs are more heartfelt. — S.I.BOX SETS
THE ASSOCIATION; "Just the Right Sound: The Association Anthology" (Warner/Rhino). ***— I saw the six-man folk-rock band The Association at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles in 1967, and it was a wonderful outdoor concert on a clear night. More than a decade later, as I was starting my career at the Deseret News, one of my first reviews was a concert headlining The Association. I was psyched at the thought of reliving that earlier experience in another outdoor venue on a clear evening . . . until the band — which included no original members — began cranking out half-hearted versions of "Cherish" and "Never My Love." More like The Disassociation. So I'm happy to report that the original group is now getting its due with this two-disc set that includes their hits, some unreleased cuts and other goodies. This one is the real, albeit mellow, deal. — Chris Hicks
TONY BENNETT; "The Essential Tony Bennett" (RPM/Columbia/Legacy). ****— From the first track on the first disc, you'll be hooked . . . whether or not you're a Bennett fan. There are 39 cuts in all; all the hits are here ("I Left My Heart in San Francisco" is No. 16 on the first disc), and many others that should have been. — C.H.
(THE ORIGINAL) BLACK SABBATH; "Symptom of the Universe: 1970-1978" (Warner Bros./Rhino) ***— Okay Sab fans. It's time to toss out your copies of "We Sold Our Souls for Rock 'n' Roll." The original Black Sabbath — Ozzy Osbourne, bassist/main lyricist Terry "Geezer" Butler, guitarist Tony Iommi and drummer Bill Ward — have worked with Warner Bros. and Rhino Records to release the band's first box set. It only focuses on the original incarnation of the band. Nowhere will you find any tunes featuring lead vocals by Ronnie James Dio, Ian Gillian, Glenn Hughes or Tony Martin. Still, such classics as "N.I.B.," "Paranoid," "Iron Man," "War Pigs," "Sweet Leaf," "Children of the Grave," "Into the Void," "Changes," "Sabra Cadabra," "Sabbath, Bloody Sabbath," "Symptom of the Universe," "Never Say Die" and "Am I Going Insane (Radio)" are all here, as well as more on this two-CD set. There's even a previously unreleased track, "Evil Woman" (not to be confused with the Dio-fronted tune "Lady Evil"), which has been exhumed for this release. — Scott Iwasaki
THE BLASTERS; "Testament: the Complete Slash Recordings" (Rhino). ***— This two-CD set packs 52 song into one neat little package. Led by Dave and Phil Alvin, the Blasters were part of the uprising roots-rock groups of the '80s. "Testament" is a listing of the group's best songs from its four-year tenure on Slash Records, featuring keyboardist Gene Taylor and the saxophone duo Steve Berlin (now with Los Lobos) and Lee Allen. "Marie Marie," "I'm Shakin' " "Barefoot Rock" and live versions of "High School Confidential," "Walkin' with Mr. Lee" and "Take Out Some Insurance" are explosive treats in this Blasters set. — S.I.
JEFF BUCKLEY; "The Grace EPs" (Columbia). **** — When Jeff Buckley left this world in 1997, he was on the brink of superstardom. And, of course, death has given him immortality, which he may or may not have reached if he were still alive. Columbia Records has gathered all his extended-play releases, including some that were only available to music critics and close friends, and packaged them in a nifty box set. These five CDs with 19 songs, 12 of which were not previously available to the public, show Buckley at his creative best. The epic "Kanga-Roo" (which clocks in at 14 minutes), and live versions of "Dream Brother," "Hallelujah" and "Mojo Pin," are rough gems that shine bright. — S.I.
CAMEO; "Anthology" (Mercury). ** 1/2— This comprehensive two-CD package has hits that even didn't make the Top 100 — "Rigor Mortis" and "Funk Funk," which hit No. 103 and 104 respectively in 1977. Still, the No. 6 "Word Up" and Top 40 "Candy" justify the 30-song disc. And unlike other over-elaborate compilations, this one is at least filled with fun groove-thing shakers. — S.I.
CAMPER VAN BEETHOVEN; "Cigarettes & Carrot Juice — The Santa Cruz Years" (Cooking Vinyl Records). **** — London-based indie-label Cooking Vinyl gave fans of this off-and-on California act an early Christmas present with this five-CD box set, which contains Camper's first three albums ("Telephone Free Landslide Victory," "Camper Van Beethoven" and "II and III"), as well as the oddities collection "Camper Vantiquities" and a live album, "Greatest Hits Played Faster." Crucial for anyone who loves the band's unique brand of jam rock (think Grateful Dead filtered through Black Flag) — and it's reasonably priced; most stores have it for less than $35. — Jeff Vice
CARPENTERS; "The Essential Collection (1965-1997)" (A&M). **** — All of the hits — including "We've Only Just Begun," "Top of the World" and "Yesterday Once More," along with an Oldies Medley, interviews, radio outtakes and a load of Christmas songs are among the 73 tracks of this four-CD box set, compiled by Richard Carpenter in honor of his late sister Karen. This collection is the most definitive and complete of the many Carpenters collections out there. And it comes with Karen's last recording "Now," as well as a 72-page booklet written by Richard (who, by the way, lashes out about the 1989 TV movie, "The Karen Carpenter Story"). — S.I.
CHEECH & CHONG; "Where There's Smoke . . . There's Cheech & Chong" (Warner Bros./Ode Sounds and Visuals/Rhino). ***— Richard "Cheech" Marin and Tommy Chong will forever be known as those lovable stoners from the '70s. These days, Chong is still touring as a stand-up comic and making appearances on "That '70s Show," while Marin can be found on TV alongside Don Johnson in "Nash Bridges" reruns. Still, there is no substitute for the "Dave" skit — "Dave's not here!" or "Let's Make a New Dope Deal." This two-CD box set is filled with 38 memorable sketches that will have Cheech and Chong junkies rolling on the floor. — S.I.
CHICAGO; "Only the Beginning: the Very Best of Chicago" (Rhino). ***— So, how many greatest-hits albums has the most famous band from the Windy City released? At least five. And that doesn't include a box set released in 1995. Still, you can't have too much Chicago, even when it's just the same songs packaged differently. Earlier this year, Rhino Records signed the band formed in the City of the Big Shoulders to re-release its entire catalog. And this double CD set was the celebrated kick-off. "Make Me Smile," "Saturday In the Park," "Old Days," "If You Leave Me Now," "Call On Me," "Will You Still Love Me" and "Hard to Say I'm Sorry/Get Away" represent Chicago. And there's even the inclusion of a tapping version of Benny Goodman's "Sing, Sing, Sing," with the Gypsy Kings. — S.I.
CLANNAD; "A Magical Gathering: the Clannad Anthology" (BMG/Rhino)*** — The Clannad of Dobhair is considered a pioneer in bringing Celtic music to the non-Celtic world. Clannad — fronted by Mire Brennan and backed by her brothers, Clarn and Pl, and uncles Noel and Pdraig Duggan, with back-up vocals by Eithne Brennan (known to the world as Enya) — has been honored with a two-CD box-set anthology that includes such early works as the group's rendition of the traditional Gaelic tunes "Nl S Ina L" and "Thos Cois Na Tr Dom," as well as the original "Newgrange" and "Ancient Forest." While Enya enjoys success with lush production, Clannad has always tried to focus on the roots of the music. With a 43-page booklet, documenting Clannad's 35-year career, this box set is a Celtic music fans dream. — S.I.
LEONARD COHEN; "The Essential Leonard Cohen" (Columbia). ***— This side of Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen is one of rock's more intricate poets. The man who spent years trying to find spiritual enlightenment through words, books and songs, and finally found it in the form of Buddhism in the mid-'90s, has green-lighted a two-disc hits set. And though none of the songs reached the Top 200, he has gained favor with Judy Collins, Tim Hardin and Jennifer Warnes — all of whom have recorded his songs. "Suzanne," "Bird on a Wire," "Hallelujah," "Night Comes On," "The Future" and "Anthem" are just a few of the thought-provoking works in this package. — S.I.
ENYA; "Only Time: The Collection" (Reprise) ***— The only disappointing thing about this box set is there are no biographies or thought pieces on this pioneering Celtic/new age musician. You'll have to buy the Clannad box set for that because Enya, born Eithne Brennan, is Mire Brennan's little sister. However, this comprehensive box set is filled with Enya's own commentary on songs such as "Orinco Flow," "Watermark" and "May It Be" from the epic film "Lord of the Rings: the Fellowship of the Ring." Incidentally, Enya's song "Lothlorien" was written and recorded in 1991, 10 years before director Peter Jackson asked her to record "May It Be." — S.I.
FLEETWOOD MAC; "The Very Best of Fleetwood Mac" (Reprise). ***— It would have been nice to include some of the works done with original Fleetwood Mac-ers Peter Green and Bob Welch. But this two-CD set, not quite a box set, and, yet, more than a greatest-hits package, focuses on the Mac from 1975 to now. Stevie Nicks, Lindsay Buckingham, John and Christine McVie and Mick Fleetwood hit paydirt with the multimillion-dollar masterpiece "Rumors" in 1977. "Go Your Own Way," "Don't Stop," "Dreams" and "You Make Lovin' Fun" were culled from the album as singles. They opened the door for "Tusk," "Sara," "Gypsy," "Hold Me" and "Little Lies." Each of those hits has been remastered, along with other trademark works "Landslide" "Songbird" and a live version of "Big Love." — S.I.
HEART; "The Essential Heart" (Epic/Legacy). *** — Ann and Nancy Wilson helped keep Seattle on the musical map after the death of Jimi Hendrix. And with their band Heart, the Wilsons coined the phrase "Rocker Chicks." "The Essential Heart" is a two-CD retrospective about the Wilsons' career, and as with other greatest-hits releases, this one includes Heart classics "Barracuda," "Crazy on You" and "Magic Man." But the inclusion of "Allies," which Nancy takes on lead vocals, is a nice addition. And then, of course, there's the No. 1 "These Dreams," also voiced by Nancy, which gives this hits collection closure. — S.I.
ELTON JOHN; "Greatest Hits 1970-2002" (Universal). ***— This could actually be considered an official Elton John box set, considering it has three CDs — one of which features four rare tracks — a live version of "Candle in the Wind" (not the version he sang for Princess Di's funeral), "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" with George Michael, "Live Like Horses" with Luciano Pavarotti and "Your Song" with Alessandro Safina. The other two discs are a comprehensive examination of John's musical career and include such hits as "Levon," "Tiny Dancer," "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting" and "Crocodile Rock." They also contain "Circle of Life" from "The Lion King" and "Written in the Stars" from "Aida." — S.I.
KENNY LOGGINS; "The Essential Kenny Loggins" (Columbia/Legacy). ***— "Your Mama Don't Dance," but perhaps that's because she's never heard "Footloose." From the Loggins & Messina tracks to Loggins' solo efforts, this is a real fans' collection on two discs, and you'll be hard-pressed to find anything missing. — C.H.
MOVIE SOUNDTRACK; "Singin' in the Rain" (Turner/Rhino). ****— The first disc is reason enough to buy this set, with the complete soundtrack, outtakes, alternative versions and supplemental material. But the real bonus is the second disc, which includes original versions of the old songs used in this classic film, performed by such artists as Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, Jeanette MacDonald and many others. Movie heaven, as they say. — C.H.
MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS; "Lullaby of Broadway: The Best of Busby Berkeley at Warner Bros." (Turner/Rhino). ***— OK, it's creaky, but for fans of '30s musicals there's a lot of fun to be had with these songs from Berkeley's early films. True, he was an offbeat choreographer and director, not a musician. But where else will you find gathered together performances by a mix this disparate: Dick Powell, Ruby Keeler, Joan Blondell, Judy Canova, Francis Langford, Gene Krupa and Benny Goodman? — C.H.
OHIO PLAYERS; "Funk On: The Mercury Anthology" (Mercury). *** — Prepare to do some shaking. The Ohio Players grabbed funk fans by the seat of their pants and had them on the dance floor in the 1970s. Two No. 1 hits, "Fire" and "Love Rollercoaster," have solidified the band as a '70s compilation staple. But this two-CD bundle is stuffed full of dynamite. And I'm not just talking about those seductive album covers. — S.I.
SMOKEY ROBINSON & THE MIRACLES; "Ooo Baby, Baby: the Anthology" (Motown). *** 1/2— Whatever happened to real soulful rhythm & blues? You know, the kind that Motown was pumping out in the '60s and early '70s? This two-CD anthology will make it easy to forget the caterwauling divas of today. The smooth vocals of William "Smokey" Robinson on such classics as "Shop Around," "You Really Got a Hold on Me," "Mickey's Monkey" and "Tears of a Clown" are accounted for, as are "Going to a Go-Go," "More Love" and "The Love I Saw in You Was Just a Mirage." — S.I.
ROLLING STONES; "Forty Licks" (Virgin). *** 1/2 — Don't get this album for the four new Stones songs — "Don't Stop," "Losing My Touch," "Keys to Your Love" and "Stealing My Heart." Get it for the other 36 classics that have been remastered for this two-CD career rundown. "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," "Wild Horses," "Start Me Up," "She's a Rainbow," "Sympathy for the Devil," "Undercover of the Night," "Brown Sugar," "Miss You," "Beast of Burden," "Emotional Rescue" and "Gimme Shelter" are only the tip of this hit-parade iceberg. The only complaint is the lack of "She's so Cold." — S.I.
JANE SIBERRY; "Love Is Everything: the Jane Siberry Anthology" (Warner Bros./Rhino). *** — Canadian singer Jane Siberry's bell-like delivery is at the same time soothing and stimulating. And once she starts to sing, people hear the whole song before they make another move. This two-CD box set follows her career from her 1980 self-titled debut to a new, untitled recording in 2001. "In the Blue Light," "Mimi Speaks" and the "Map of the World" epic have found their rightful place on this emotive collection. Even the Christmas-themed "Are You Burning, Little Candle?" has been carefully handled and included. But one of her more popular songs (at least for U.S. audiences), "It Won't Rain All the Time," from the first "Crow" movie soundtrack, has been mysteriously left off. — S.I.
CARLY SIMON; "Anthology" (Arista/BMG/Rhino/Elektra). **** — This collection of hits and favorites ("Anticipation," "You're So Vain," two duets with James Taylor, "Film Noir," etc., capped by a live concert cut of "Touched by the Sun") is about as good as this kind of packaging gets. All the album covers are included with the liner notes, and hearing Simon's best work on two discs only reinforces her place in pop-music history. — C.H.
PAUL SIMON; "On My Way, I Don't Where I'm Goin': The Paul Simon Collection" (Warner Bros.) ****— Paul Simon, one of the first rock stars to bring world rhythms and ethnic music into the mainstream, has released a greatest-hits collection that spans his 20-year career as a solo artist. "Mother Child Reunion," "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard," "Kodachrome," "Loves Me Like a Rock," "Late in the Evening" and "You Can Call Me Al" are just the tip of this hits-galore iceberg. And the second special-edition CD features live versions of "Mrs. Robinson" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water," the latter featuring Aaron Neville on vocals. — S.I.
SIOUXSIE & THE BANSHEES; "The Very Best of Siouxsie & the Banshees" (Star/Geffen). *** 1/2 — The liner notes state Siouxsie & the Banshees ran into some backlash while trying to shed its goth image. Understandable. The band featured the raven-haired lead singer who found an audience while singing such dreamy tunes as "Happy House" "Kiss Them for Me" and "Face to Face" (a song co-written by Oingo Boingo's former leader Danny Elfman, and which appeared in the Tim Burton flick "Batman Returns"). Those of you who have forgotten Siouxsie will remember the crossover hit "Peek-a-Boo." That is also included on this two-CD hits collection. — S.I.
ROD STEWART; "Reason to Believe: The Complete Mercury Recordings" (Mercury). *** — "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy" won't be found on any of the three CDs in this box set. But you will find "Maggie May," "(I Know) I'm Losing You," "Twistin' the Night Away" and
"Every Picture Tells a Story." In addition there are rare tracks, including "Jodie" and "Oh! No Not My Baby," featuring a pre-Rolling Stones Ron Wood and a pre-Who Kenny Jones on guitars and drums, respectively. — S.I.
BARBRA STREISAND; "The Essential Barbra Streisand (Columbia). ****— Whatever you may think of Streisand . . . and few people these days are without an opinion . . . she retains that marvelous, one-of-a-kind voice, and this range of 40 cuts on two discs from her many past albums (pictured with the liner notes) demonstrates her talent, versatility and individuality. All the expected hits are here, from "People" to "Evergreen" to "Somewhere," including some of her duets: "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" (with Neil Diamond), "No More Tears" (with Donna Summer), etc. It's hard to listen to this collection and not find your respect for Streisand the artist renewed. — C.H.
THE SUPREMES; "The '70s Anthology" (Motown). ***— For those who think that when Diana Ross left the Supremes the group fell apart, this two-disc collection of hits, and some perhaps less well-remembered songs, reinforces the importance of the trio that followed (in various incarnations). With liner notes by Mary Wilson and such fabulous tunes as "Up the Ladder to the Roof," "Stoned Love" and many others, the post-Ross Supremes find their rightful place in the Motown songbook. — C.H.
TEN YEARS AFTER; "The Anthology (1967-1971)" (Hip-O). ***— Casual classic-rock listeners may know the '60s band Ten Years After primarily from one song, "I'd Love to Change the World" (which is No. 12 on the second disc here). But fans know the band was much more than that, achieving its biggest early boost from Woodstock and then establishing itself as a major blues-rock influence. Even the staple "Spoonful" is invigorated here, and the 11-minute Woodstock version of "I'm Going Home" is another highlight. — C.H.
RANDY TRAVIS; "Trail of Memories: the Randy Travis Anthology" (Warner Bros./Rhino). ***— Music saved Randy Bruce Traywick from a possible life in the Big House. But unfortunately, in the early days of his career, Traywick, who changed his stage name to Travis, was considered too country for Nashville. Go figure. This two-CD box set shows how much country this smooth baritone could be. And to tell you the truth, it's so much better than what can sometimes pass for country these days. "Diggin' Up Bones," "He Walked on Water," "All Night Long" with Merle Haggard, and "I'm Gonna Have a Little Talk" have been compiled for this set. Too bad the rare recording of Travis singing Hank Williams Sr.'s "I'm So Lonesome I Could Die" didn't make the final pressing. — S.I.
THE TURTLES; "Solid Zinc: The Turtles Anthology" (Rhino). ***— Fans of the Turtles know the hits — "You Baby," "Happy Together," "She'd Rather Be With Me," etc., but this set offers a view of the band's variety, which may garner some new fans. A lot of pop-rock fun. — C.H.
U2; "The Best of 1990-2000 & B-Sides" (Island/Interscope) *** — The only weak songs on this second U2 "Best-of" collection are anything from 1997's "Pop" album. And even then, the tunes from that album — "Discoteque," "Staring at the Sun" and "Gone" — have been remixed for this set. But such cool songs as "Beautiful Day" and "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of" are here. And there are two new ones — "Hands that Built America," from the upcoming Martin Scorsese film "Gangs of New York," and the hot MTV single "Electrical Storm." This is a nice collection of U2's later works. And the B-Sides capper is a take on the Beatles' "Happiness Is a Warm Gun." — S.I.
VARIOUS ARTISTS; "The '80s Pop Culture Box" (Rhino). ****— You can learn to break-dance with the how-to diagrams printed on the inside cover of this massive seven-CD box set. And then, if you want to do a little "light" reading about the "Me Decade," this box set includes a 90-page volume of trivia, trends, pictures and commentary about the 1980s. Oh, yeah, there's music, too. Seven CDs worth of New Wave (Human League's "Don't You Want Me"), rock (Yes' "Owner of a Lonely Heart"), easy listening (Air Supply's "Lost in Love"), country (Eddie Rabbitt's "I Love a Rainy Night"), pop (Joe Jackson's "Steppin' Out"), rhythm & blues (Gap Band's "You Dropped a Bomb on Me"), novelty (Buckner & Garcia's "Pac-Man Fever") and metal (Scorpions' "Rock You Like a Hurricane"). And there's a lot more. — S.I.
YES; "In a Word: 1969 - " (Elektra/Rhino). ****— This five-CD collection, which was released earlier this year, is the most complete, comparatively speaking, of the three official Yes box sets on the market. But five discs are still not enough space to show off all of Yes' musical masterworks. (Although this box does try.) All the classic-rock staples are here. From "I've Seen All Good People" and "Roundabout" to "Owner of a Lonely Heart," "Leave It," "Rhythm of Love" and "Lift Me Up," the box spans the 30-year career of England's most prolific and profound progressive-rock band. Rare gems include "Richard" and "Last Train," and Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman and Howe's "Brother of Mine" and "Fist of Fire" complete this 45-song compilation, which may go down in history as "The Book of Yes," because of its easy-to-manage packaging. — S.I.
DWIGHT YOAKAM; "Reprise Please Baby: the Warner Bros. Years" (Warner Bros./Rhino). ****— This four-CD box set shows Dwight Yoakam is more than just a Buck Owens protege. From 1987 to the present, Yoakam has brought roots country to the forefront in the days of Faith Hill and Brooks & Dunn. "Honky Tonk Man," "Buenas Noches From a Lonely Room (She Wore Red Dresses)," his remake of Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" and ZZ Top's "I'm Bad I'm Nationwide" and "Holding Things Together" are scattered throughout. And disc four is composed entirely of previously unissued tracks, including live versions of the Grateful Dead's "Truckin' " and "My Bucket's Got a Hole in It." — S.I.