This review assumes that the reader is already familiar with the magical stress-busting qualities of the Secret Garden blend of instrumental and vocal New Age music, but perhaps has not taken the plunge and purchased any of their albums yet. If not, then reading the reviews from their other albums should leave you in no doubt that this is wonderful music for relaxation. Mostly gentle, contemplative music but with a few tuneful Irish style jigs thrown in to vary the tempo.
This 30 track compilation distills the best from their first 4 albums and therefore is indeed the 'ultimate' collection for those who just want one representative Secret Garden album. The recent "Earthsongs" is not represented here, but frankly that is no loss!
If you already own their most popular "Once in a Red Moon" album, (which many regard as the pinnacle of their output), then you will find some duplication here. In that case go for the bargain priced old "Dreamcatcher" compilation, with 18 tracks culled from their first 3 albums. Don't buy the new US import Dreamcatcher re-release, which offers one extra track but is no cheaper than this 2 disc, 30 track "Ultimate Secret Garden" anthology.
Alternative listening?
If the contemplative side of Secret Garden appeals, and you can do without the foot tapping "Riverdance" jigs, then you would surely get hooked by any of the meditative early albums from the aptly named BLISS - try "Through These Eyes" or "A Hundred Thousand Angels".