THE VERY BEST OF

Pick up any Blood Sweat and Tears compilation, and you can guarantee that about 10 of their songs will appear on every one. The band enjoyed a limited amount of singles success in the 1970's with songs such as "You've made me so very happy", "Spinning wheel", "More and more", "Lisa Listen to me" and "Hi-di-ho". Those who are new to the band are more likely to recognise such songs, hence their place on compilations is secured.

Unlike other BS&T collections, this album focuses only on their first four albums. The tracks are not however in chronological order, the album ending with two tracks from the first album. That album, "Child is the father to man" was noticeably different to what followed, since it featured band leader Al Kooper, who would be asked to leave before the second album was recorded. The second album was also the first to feature the unique voice of David Clayton-Thomas, making the selections from "Child.." sound rather different to their peers.

The band's second (eponymous) album contributes no less than six tracks reflecting its significance in their history. While this allows space for more interesting jazz rock pieces such as "Variations on a theme" the selections are still generally safe and predictable.

Now superseded by more comprehensive CD compilations, this is nonetheless a decent summary of the band's early recordings.