Must be Christmas, because here's another Best Of in the racks. Unlike recent, exploitative sets by U2 and Depeche Mode, "Go" has some redeeming factors : namely that it's the first compilation of Moby's work over the past two decades - and also because he's actually put some thought and effort into it.
For example, the tracklisting, whilst at first glance a random assortment of material, features up to four new recordings (a new song, two reworks of oldies, and a foreign language version of "Slipping Away" in some countries), and, spread across the various configurations, 20 hit singles, 11 remixes, a 90 minute documentary, and 31 promo videos. It's sure an expensive time to be a fan, but a bit of careful shopping can see you sated with 2 CD's and 2 DVD's for around £20.
One could ask why this "best of" exists in the age of home made iTunes and so forth, and I suppose the answer is that Moby's record company have it in their contract. And now, as Mute Records appear to be hitting some financial difficulties, is as good a time as any to cash in the chips.
Musically, "Go" is a familiar story - an assortment of mostly later-era Moby material, tapping the vein of mostly melancholy dance which demonstrates the wide range of music Moby can make that sounds, despite the varied template, essentially Mobyesque : from the cheesy squealy rave of "Move", the big beats of "James Bond Theme", and the stubbornly retro disco of "New York, New York", to the more understated, heartfelt longings of "Dream About Me" and "We Are All Made Of Stars" (which is the best song about astrophysics ever). In this context, the breadth of Moby's talent, an ability to produce a sound of out of almost any instrument, in almost any style he choses, is apparent. What it does show is how under-rated Moby is as an artist - and how strong his songwriting skills are. All people see is the bald vegan intead of a lucky talented geek.
The DVD, which showcases a couple of songs from his claustrophobic heartbreak metal album "Animal Rights", is better value, even though it doesn't have "New York, New York" on it. 27 promo videos, and a 90 documentary later, and frankly, you're all Moby-ed out. "Go" is a comprehensive taster of the world of Moby, and barely scratches the surface of his diversity of styles or the strength of his back catalogue.
If you're one of the two people in the world who doesn't have "Play", then this collection is an excellent starting point. Recommended.