Ladies And Gentlemen (The Best Of George Michael) - George Michael > Reviews > One for the ladies... and gentleman

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Sublime
Quality and consistency of tracks	A couple of weak links
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Outstanding
Value for Money

Advantages:	very very good, easy to listen to
Disadvantages:	when the cd ends !  !  !  !

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Want to chill out?

Fancy a quiet night in with your loved one, with a bottle of wine, soft lights and music?

Then this is the album you should be listening to. "Ladies and Gentleman" is not your usual "best of" album that most artists churn out as when the coffers start to get a little low. Having said, George Michael isn't exactly your normal average everyday recording artist. Gone is the big quiff a-la Wham! "Ladies" is a culmination of a decade of an artist who has re-invented himself, and proved beyond doubt that coming away from a successful band does not signal death in the ever changing music industry.

The collection of tracks on this album is as long as it is broad (nearly 30 tracks in all). Covered over 2 cd's, the first one being called "For the soul", the second "For the feet", the album moves from subtle ballards, a little bit of soul, and a lot of dance. Disc 1 (for the soul) is packed full of soul/ballard hits that we all know. From the duet with Elton John on "Don't let the sun go down on me", to hits like "Father Figure" and the excellent "Different Corner", it oozes sensuality in every sense of the word. Disc 2 (for the feet) is just as appetising, from the upbeat tempo of "Outside", to the wonderfully jazzy "Star People". And who can forget the wonderful catchy duet with Aretha Franklin on " I Knew You Were Waiting".

It is not often that a compilation is worth the spending money. Normally it is a money-making exercise for the artist and nothing more. It is rare indeed therefore for an album of this genre to be a worthwhile purchase. "Ladies" is however in a category all of its own, spanning a wide variety of musical styles which should appeal to all. The presentation of the box and inlay card is first rate, including lyrics and accompanying pictures reflecting the artist from when each song was released. Currently retailing at approx £15.99 this is an absolute bargain for its content. Make it a purchase and settle in for a night of sheer musical indulgence. Alternatively, snuggle up to your loved one, turn down the light, and just enjoy.