Album Review

Levellers – Greatest Hits

• 29th Sep 2014

It’s a tricky thing reviewing a “Greatest Hits” or “Best of” Compilation by any band. And this is not the first one from the Levellers. But it seems like they are going for the most complete collection to date with this two disc edition (Not mentioning of course the DVD full of music videos that may well come with the edition you buy – Do make sure you check the description fully as various versions are available depending on whether you want the Bonus DVD or not).

The title “Greatest Hits” is perhaps misleading as they appear to have just included every popular tune and single. And on top of that have found room for live tracks and some re-recordings featuring other vocalists such as Frank Turner and Billy Bragg to name just two guest vocalists. But in total there are 35 tracks.

Taking a closer peek – Exodus you only get as a live track. Thanks to the guest vocals you get alternate versions of Julie, Beautiful day, Just The One and Hope Street.
Some fans might pick over versions picked for other tracks. There are those out there that prefer the album version of Dog Train with its longer and grander intro. Some people also prefer the album version of This Garden which seems to have gotten lost down the years in favour of the funkier single version – so naturally it is the latter that appears here. And even One Way gets the spruced up version appearing instead of the original. At least they have the good sense to place it at the start of one of the discs (Frankly that is the only acceptable place for One Way to be – it is and always have been a great album opener).

All in all though it’s an impressive collection of largely very good and very memorable tunes that is a testament to the bands 25 year history. This release is a great gateway for new fans to then explore their back catalogue, and a decent way for existing fans to celebrate the longevity of the band who continue to release decent albums and put on exciting live shows.

The DVD has almost 30 tracks on it. The menu is a bit basic at best so you may have to fiddle a bit to scroll to the track you want. But the sound and quality of the videos is good. This should get people in the mood for the bands next tour which starts in October.

Venue: Greatest Hits
Support Band: On The Fiddle