At Her Very Best

The task of compiling a single-disc best-of collection for legendary Greek chanteuse Nana Mouskouri is virtually impossible, but this 21-track retrospective, spanning the singer's career and incorporating a range of musical styles, is an excellent introduction for the novice or casual fan. For the collector, it offers two rarities: her version of "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" (in English) and her duet with Michel Legrand, "Quand on S'Aime." From the song that made her famous ("The White Rose of Athens") to French opera (Carmen's Habanera), the array of musical styles (and languages) this woman has conquered is staggering. This disc, which includes pop songs "Bridge Over Troubled Water","Oh Happy Day", and classics (Ave Maria), brings the songs together seamlessly,it's difficult to imagine that these recordings span nearly 40 years. Despite a serious lack of liner notes, this single-disc compilation is a definite treat, and a wonderful introduction to one of the most famous singers the world has known.