Best Of Volume 1

Considering the lumpsome of both memorable hits and legendary album cuts, it's surprising that it took 18 years and 10 studio albums before Van Halen even though about releasing a greatest hits compilation. What's even more surprising and surely diisapointing to many is after all of that they decided to m]slim their catalogue to the point of ridiculousness in order to fit it on one C.D. For hardcore fans Best Of Volume I is rather disposible with the exception of the two new reunion tracks with legendary frontman David Lee Roth. "Can't Get This Stuff No More" is only average but the long and menacing "Me Wise Magic" is worth a few listens. The problem with Best Of Volume I is that even beginners to Van Halen would be equally well served by introducing them to hard rock staples like the bands debut, 1984 and 5150. There are many excellent tracks included starting in chronilogically order with Eddie's showcase "Eruption", "Ain't Talkin' Bout Love" and "Runnin' With The Devil". By the end of the Roth years, major hits like "Jump" and "Panama" are featured. The Sammy Hagar era roars in with huge hits like "Why Can't This Be Love", "Dreams" and "When It's Love". But including "Humans Being" from the Twister soundtrack is unessecary considering how many great tunes are missing. Tip for all, if you know Van Halen or simply have listened to rock radio over the past 20+ years, stick to the original albums.