"They were never going to live up to past greatness, but this is still album of the year. Hard, fist-pumping, weird, one of too few great rock records in 2003."
"Opeth, normally an extreme black metal band, show off their acoustic leanings on what can only be described as a beautiful reflection. They really are one of a kind."
"A little bit mainstream, a little bit generic, but this is surprisingly enthralling hard rock. If you liked the first single 'Caught In The Rain', you'll love what follows: Very solid hard rock."
"Counting Crows were one of the most wonderfully tragic bands of the nineties and with their 'Best Of' set, they couldn't go wrong. Rock? Melancholy? Thought? It has it all. Compilation of the year."
"Remember 'Save Tonight'? Well Eagle-Eye never truly made it, but latest album Sub Rosa is fine, sunny rock and roll. 'Skull Tattoo' and 'Don't Give Up' are among his best works."
"Yes, it's the Crows again. Technically released a few years ago, this 2003 UK issue includes the superb, 'Big Yellow Taxi', and is just full of timeless, memorable classic rock songs and melodies."
"His latest album 'Rock N Roll' was chosen over this EP and another. There's something near as tragic as this record going wrong there. Sorrowful is putting it lightly, but this is Adams at his best."
"The best thing to happen to thrash metal. Seemingly finally finishing Pantera off, their 'Best Of' set is as essential as air, and feels like being kicked by a size 10 steel toe capped boot. 'Walk'."
"Feel like getting your smile back? Train will sort you out. Most famous for 'Drops Of Jupiter', 'MPN' is Train at their best and most free. An essential trad. rock record."
"Living up to their alt. masterwork 'Mer De Noms', A Perfect Circle, have not only succeeded, but made it look as insecure as it sounded. More low key and ominous, and one of the albums of the year."
"What can be said about The Darkness...this is just a terrific fun album. The music quality is surprisingly wonderful and memorable too. Chant-a-longs and fist pumping everywhere in sight. Thumbs up!"
"Just another great American rock record. Pure rock, with soaring vocals. A little bit preachy as always, but the overall sound puts you through. Shock Horror: Uplifting hard rock!"
"Pearl Jam unlock their closets and let out a few gems...well about 40 to be precise. Surprisingly, this is as good as any of their studio albums, Rarities albums of the year."
"The newly loved-up Black Crowes frontman offers contemplation and hope. Nothing totally original, just a beautiful low key rock record. Black Crowes fans, in case you're wondering: Yes, it's worth it."
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