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13 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Greatest hits certainly, very best probably not, 6 Aug 2001
In terms of coverage of the Eagles' principal hit singles and other best known songs, this compilation (actually only a slightly rehashed version of that issued some five years ago) can't be faulted. It epitomises the band's trademark country-rock sound of harmonious vocals and guitar backing, and will be ideal for the interested, although not dedicated fan. It's archetypal West Coast rock, with many memorable songs which have stood the test of time and become minor classics - and which even brightened up the west coast of Lancashire throughout the mid 70s, courtesy of the bands I and my friends played in! However, as with most artists their greatest hits are not their very best records, and the Eagles are no exception. This collection probably just about manages to prevent the band being stereotyped as the epitome of every country rock cliché. Thus for every track that veers towards C&W (such as Tequila sunrise, Peaceful easy feeling, Take it easy or Lyin' eyes) there is another which is an orchestrated ballad or hints at R&B, soul, or even reggae (try Take it to the limit, One of these nights, I can't tell you why, or Hotel California). Overall, therefore, a reasonable balance is achieved and the result is very pleasant listening, although chronologically the tracks are all over the place and do not show the band's stylistic development over time. I'm also mystified as to how the rather jarring and forgettable James Dean made it into this collection. For this to have truly been a Very Best compilation, however, a second CD would be needed, including more obscure but indispensable songs selected from all six original albums (Make your own list but don't hold your breath - such a compilation will never be issued). Instead, we committed fans will have to keep playing all the original albums to really hear the very best of the Eagles.
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