Sometimes, I want to listen to something challenging but interesting or so fresh it is in the shockwave just ahead of cutting-edge of new music. Sometimes, I just want to listen to a compilation of songs from my yoof. Today is that sort of day.
End of a difficult week, the hottest day of the year, I don’t want to think anymore; I want to chair dance to Freddie Mercury belting out ‘Living On My Own’, The Pet Shop Boys’ immaculate ‘Can You Forgive Her’ and New Order’s brilliant ‘Regret’. Lo and behold that is the first three songs on this compilation.
There is more quality on here, too. ‘Come Undone’ by Duran Duran, ‘Break It Down Again’ by Tears For Fears, ‘Too Young To Die’ by Jamiroquai - all songs that were placed lovingly into Spotify playlists in the past.
It isn’t all gold, though; this compilation also includes that absolute lump of dog toffee ‘Two Princes’ by the Spin Doctors - loathsome tosh of the highest order. It can do one, and take ‘What’s Up?’ By 4 Non Blondes with it…and ‘Pray’ by Take That.
Let’s stick to the positives, though; the collection also includes crackers like ‘Are You Gonna Go My Way’ by Lenny Kravitz, which sounds epic played loud on my system, as does ‘Creep’ by Radiohead and from a completely different genre, the fabulous ’Open Up’ by Leftfield featuring John Lydon.
Dialling down the reach-for-the-lazers dance madness, Sting’s ‘Fields Of Gold’, Paul Weller’s ‘Wild Wood’ and ‘Linger’ by The Cranberries prove that you don’t always need to shout to be heard.
The last disc includes some of my favourite songs released by female singers that year, like ‘Don’t Be A Stranger’ by Dina Carroll, ‘Dreams’ by Gabrielle and the worldy that is ‘Right Here’s by SWV with its brilliant use of the Michael Jackson sample.
I reckon they had a big fight in the planning meeting for this record, as the last side is littered with artists already appearing. Duran Duran (Ordinary World), Pet Shop Boys (Go West), and Take That (Relight My Fire) - ah, well, 2/3 isn’t bad!
This album has been a real tonic. Yes, I’ve had to relive Meat Loaf’s ‘I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)’, but I also heard ‘Show Me Love’ by Robin S for the first time in moons, so swings and roundabouts, I guess.
If you want to pick up a copy, it is available all over the place for about £35 on this sumptuous hot pink vinyl.
Tracks To Try: Any I haven’t slagged off!!
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