Mca
2006
The Definitive Collection
About This Album
Only the name has changed from 1997's more creatively titled Joe Walsh's Greatest Hits: Little Did He Know..., but since Walsh hasn't notched any additional hits under his own name since then until this 2006 compilation, Definitive Collection, and hasn't released any fresh solo material either, this can still be considered "definitive." Walsh did hit the road in the summer of 2006 with a re-formed James Gang, so that might have been the impetus to reissue these songs under a different title, with even the rather bland sleeve photo staying intact. Despite ignoring material from the James Gang's debut Yer' Album (certainly the beautifully crafted "Take a Look Around" should have made the cut), this whittles Walsh's catalog down to 15 representative tracks that span three labels over 22 years, with 1987's woeful Got Any Gum? and 1992's unimpressive Songs for a Dying Planet not surprisingly missing. When Walsh is in top form as on the James Gang tunes and the classic "Life's Been Good," his mix of humor with rocking melodies is tough to beat. But none of his discs consistently capture that concoction, so this generous 15-track, 75-minute collection is the most cost effective way to appreciate his talents. While the James Gang albums, especially the roaring {Live in Concert} that is not represented here, are well-worth owning, this should be any newcomer's next choice. ~ Hal Horowitz, All Music Guide
Track List (try tracks 2,3,5,6,13 and 15)

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