Styx's Greatest Hits (1995)--the best single-disc Styx collection on the market
Styx released their first A&M years collection 'Greatest Hits' in 1995. This is their second overall collection, with their first being 1975's Wooden Nickel Records 'Best of Styx.'
But this remains the most comprehensive collection of Styx on the market. All of the band's radio hits are here, and it also includes some popular album tracks and fan favorites as well. This collection spans Styx's A&M years, 1975-1995, a 20-year period.
Here is the album by album review.
Tracks from Equinox (1975):
'Lorelei,' 'Suite Madame Blue'
Review: I like what's represented. Obviously they would put 'Lorelei' here, because that was the radio hit here. But, I'm just a tad disappointed that we don't have 'Light Up' or 'Mother Dear' on here. But A&M got it right for the most part on this one.
Tracks from Crystal Ball (1976):
'Crystal Ball'
Review: THAT'S IT!?! Just 'Crystal Ball'? This was Tommy Shaw's first record with Styx, and it remains one of their finest. No 'Mademoiselle' or 'Shooz'? Or maybe even an album track like 'Jennifer'? That's disappointing.
Tracks from The Grand Illusion (1977):
'Come Sail Away,' 'Miss America,' 'Fooling Yourself,' 'Grand Illusion'
Review: They got all of the hits from the record. Just a tad disappointed to see 'Man In The Wilderness' absent, but that's a minor complaint, nothing to cry about. A&M definitely got this one right.
Tracks from Pieces of Eight (1978):
'Renegade,' 'Blue Collar Man'
Review: Again, A&M took the hits from the record, but forgot all about the album tracks. I am very disappointed that 'Sing For The Day' and 'Great White Hope' aren't here. But A&M did alright on this one.
Tracks from Cornerstone (1979):
'Babe'
Review: ONLY 'BABE'!?! Where is 'Boat On The River'? That was my favorite song from the album, and yet, nowhere to be found here. That's very disappointing. A&M got this one wrong. 'Babe' was great, but why stop there?
Tracks from Paradise Theater (1981):
'Too Much Time On My Hands,' 'The Best Of Times'
Review: A great record, one of Styx's best. And A&M picked the two significant tunes from this record. But, I am a little mad to see 'Rockin' The Paradise' and 'Snowblind' omitted. But still, A&M picked out the two hits from the record, so I'm not complaining at all.
Tracks from Kilroy Was Here (1983):
'Mr. Roboto,' 'Don't Let It End'
Review: The 1983 concept album is represented nicely here, but I'm just a tad bit disappointed to see 'Heavy Metal Poisoning' omitted. But A&M did a great job. Again, no complaints.
Tracks from Edge of the Century (1990):
'Show Me The Way'
Review: Out of all of Styx's records from the A&M years, this was, without a doubt, their weakest. 'Show Me The Way' is a nice tune, and I'm glad it's here. I did enjoy 'Love Is The Ritual,' so I'm just a tad disappointed that it's not here, but A&M did a great job with selections from this record.
New Tracks (1995):
'Lady 95'
Review: A great remake of their biggest Wooden Nickel hit. While I prefer the Wooden Nickel version over this one, this is still a great remake. Dennis' vocals are in top shape here. Cool remake.
Overall, 'Greatest Hits' is the best single disc Styx collection on the market and it remains the ultimate starting point for Styx. Everything here is great, despite a couple of key omissions.
Highly recommended for any Styx fan.
ENJOY!!!
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