The Rolling Stones – Singles Collection✽ The London Years

2002's SACD reissue of "Singles Collection: The London Years" contains every single -- in their correct mixes no less -- the Rolling Stones released before and during their imperial phase, which is to say that it functions as the first Stones compilation to succeed in being comprehensive. "Hot Rocks" and "More Hot Rocks" are infinitely more cohesive in presenting the essential material from their greatest period as a musical unit, but as impeccable as they are, it must be said that they are disordered, with several tracks not in their original mixes. It is justly considered a masterpiece in itself, but "Hot Rocks" ostensibly operates as a sample of The Rolling Stones; it is much too succinct and nowhere near complete or definitive. As a band who, unlike the Beatles, would not diversify or master their core sound and craft esteemed albums until the late 1960s, their early singles were where they initially achieved their greatness, and "Singles Collection" excellently and exhaustively delineates their ability to recognize material with the most commercial potential. By compiling the singles in chronological order, this collection has a power all of its own, with each hit and non-hit unfolding at a breakneck pace. If "Hot Rocks" captures the general idea of the Stones in their thriving and yet still developing '60s incarnation and is perfect for the casual fan, then "Singles" is essential for those who want a much more extensive view of the Stones in the rich vein of form they hit during the height of the British Invasion.

Rating: 4.5/5