This 16-track set from Be Bop Deluxe's short but productive four-year, six-album career captures a handful of highlights from each release, and adds both sides of a rare 1973 single, which see their first CD appearance. Oddly those two songs close the disc, which otherwise is in strict... [+] Expand

This 16-track set from Be Bop Deluxe's short but productive four-year, six-album career captures a handful of highlights from each release, and adds both sides of a rare 1973 single, which see their first CD appearance. Oddly those two songs close the disc, which otherwise is in strict chronological order as it traces the band's evolution from its vaguely glam roots to a more progressive-minded entity that could also churn out snappy near-hits. The specter of David Bowie is never far from the spotlight, especially given that singer/songwriter/frontman Bill Nelson (who also pens witty and reflective liner notes) sounds a lot like Ziggy Stardust. The music also approximates various aspects in Bowie's career, although the synths and general production seem not to have fared quite as well. Still, there is a charm to Be Bop Deluxe's sound that, while dated, shows a band with a clear direction and identifiable sound as it shoehorns Nelson's often experimental guitar solos into hummable melodies. This compilation only shares eight tunes with 1990's equally awkwardly titled Raiding the Divine Archive: The Best of Be Bop Deluxe. That either shows what constituted the band's best material is subjective, or the group had a lot of pretty good songs. Probably a little of both is involved since this is a solid listen with no clunkers, although the disappointing omission of the terrific "Panic in the World" and especially "Sleep That Burns" is glaring. A few more rarities and live tracks and there is certainly enough for a double album, something the band deserves. While not perfect, this is still an accurate overview that should have most listeners seeking out Be Bop Deluxe's entire catalog, which, as of this album's appearance in 2004, was sonically upgraded and bolstered by extra material. ~ Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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