Red Hot Chili Peppers — Greatest Hits
You know it’s nearly Christmas when bands start releasing Greatest Hits compilations. Still, this one’s an excellent roundup of the band’s remarkable achievements over the past 15 years, and the constant evolution and redesigning of their sound. Out now, 18E
Robbie Williams — Live Summer 2003
Knebworth has a certain reputation for making musical history. When Oasis played there in the 1990s, it was a defining moment in their career, and it looks like the same applies to Robbie Williams in 2003. If you weren’t one of the 400 000 people who witnessed the event this summer, this CD will help. Out now, 18E
R Kelly — The R in R&B Volume 1
One of his songs is called “The World’s Greatest,” and he’s not far wrong. The ubiquitous R&B singer has a decade of hits to his credit, and they’re all on this album, including, of course, the classic “I Believe I Can Fly,” plus a previously unreleased collaboration with Wyclef Jean. Out now, 19E
Elvis — 2nd to None
A bit like exploring an archaeological wreck... researchers keep digging up previously buried artefacts about the legend tsurrounding Elvis Presley. This compilation includes some recently discovered material, newly re-mastered tracks, and a rather interesting Paul Oakenfold remix of “Rubberneckin.” Out now, 19E
REM — In Time: The Best of 1988-2003
It all began in Georgia, 16 albums ago. From obscurity to international stardom, the history of REM is documented in this compilation of greatest hits, which includes their new single “Bad Day.” There’s also a limited-edition double CD available, which includes B-sides and other pleasant surprises. Out now, 19E
Dido — Life For Rent
Four years after “No Angel” made her famous overnight, Dido is back. As it happens, this latest offering doesn’t contain anything as powerful as “Here With Me.” The focus is on more melodic piano-based ballads, produced by her brother, Rollo from Faithless, and recorded in ex-Eurythmic Dave Stewart’s London studio. Out now, 18E
David Bowie — Reality
The latest offering from a man who refuses to grow old. The new album from the London Borough of Bromley’s finest creation is reminiscent of Bowie’s 1970s heyday. Out now, 19E
Britney Spears — In The Zone
Britney’s fourth album is a far cry from her squeaky-clean pure pop days. A quick glance at the artists she’s collaborated with confirms its grittier, more rhythmic feel. Contributors include Moby, R Kelly and P Diddy, to name but a few. Out now, 18E
The Beatles — Let It Be… Naked
Like a slightly hyperactive child with a new Christmas toy, Phil Spector enjoyed experimenting with lavish production effects. But the Beatles longed for a purer, more authentic sound. This CD turns back time, taking the original master tape of Let It Be, and reproducing it as it is, without the polished edges. Out now, 19E
Kyo — Le Chemin
The melodic rock song “Dernière Danse” was played thousands of times this year on every radio station from Lille to Perpignan. 2003 has been Kyo’s year, and this was the album that did it for them. Out now, 17E
compiled by Paul McNally
