5.
Singles 45's and Under by Squeeze
Sample Track: "Black Coffee in Bed"
Great outfit that had high aspirations in the land of album making, but never managed to create a true classic (despite hiring Nick Lowe and Elvis Costello to produce). Regardless, this collection does their uneven catalog much justice. And yes, it does include "Tempted".
4.
The Georgia Peach by Little Richard
Sample Track: "Long Tall Sally"
Contrary to popular belief, Little Richard's career did not begin and end with "Tutti Fruiti". In fact, Little Richard had tons of hits and is probably part of the triumvirate most responsible for rock n' roll as we know it (along with Chuck Berry, James Brown, and Elvis... wait... that's 4 people... it's a fourumvirate). The songs hold up remarkably well today given their age. Perfect listening for anyone who Elton John was the first pianist to do that whole shrieking, flamboyant thing.
3.
Discography by the Pet Shop Boys
Sample Track: "Let's Make Lots of Money"
Sure, it's just pop music. But it's damn good pop music. And that's all you need to know about this collection. Oh, and this album features a lot of synthesizer. Epic amounts, actually.
2.
The Very Best of Otis Redding, Vol. 1
Sample Track: "That's How Strong My Love Is"
Perhaps only Al Green was ever in his league of soul-ness, but Al cut too many acclaimed albums to be on this list (though his Very Best of is highly recommended to those who only need 15 or songs to quench their need for smooth and awesome). This collection will not only inspire you and many others to dance (see this), but it will also be a bottomless pit of gems next time you want to woo someone with a mixed tape.
1.
The Essential George Jones: The Spirit of Country Music
Sample Track: "The Race Is On"
Avid readers of this blog (and there are so many) don't need to be reminded of my hard on for this guy. I could swoon over his pronunciation and cadence, his beautifully emotional delivery of every lyric... but instead, I'll just insist you delve into this two-disc keeper of a collection.
***
On the Bubble.
The Best of the Gap Band
Sample Track: "You Dropped a Bomb on Me"
Ok, maybe this funky troupe did make a few good albums. But be honest, can you resist record that collects the likes of "Early in the Morning", "Burn Rubber", "Outstanding", "I Don't Believe You Want to Get Up and Dance (Oops Upside Your Head)", AND "You Dropped a Bomb on Me"? Didn't think so. Never mind that the video I linked above will make your week.
Honorary Live Album.
Press Eject and Give Me the Tape by Bauhaus
Sample Track: "In the Flat Field"
Supposedly what made these guys great was their theatrics and performances during their live shows. According to my copy of The Rough Guide (Rock edition), these guys were the high point of Goth "[B]efore people began drinking blood, conjuring up demons and taking the whole thing far too seriously." I've had the pleasure of seeing their lead singer live, and it was fantastic. Not for everyone, but try it anyway.
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