Greatest Hits

by

Shania Twain

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I normally don't buy greatest hits albums from artists that I already own the albums for but I had to make an exception in this case. 20 different songs (there are 2 versions of Party For Two making the complete 21 song cd) is what I'd call a complete cd. Normally artists take their 10-12 biggest songs plus one new song and call it a greatest hits album. Amazingly enough a year or so later they put out a second greatest hits album that you have to pay another $15 for to have the complete hits collection. You have to respect Shania for giving us, the fans, a great value for our money. I would recommend this album to anyone interested in getting a Shania cd as every song is a gem. For those curious, both of the version of Party For Two are great. I won't try to describe them as I'll trip over myself. Whether or not you have all of Shania's albums or not, pick this one up as either way, you get what you pay for: all of her best songs in one place.

How are we to judge Shania Twain? As an artist of quality? In that case, this review is pointless--I dislike writing negative reviews, and Shania herself has come out and said she only records songs so they will become hits. I don't see the artistic quality in that. But if we are judging her as an artist who knows exactly what her fans and critics wants, and delivers...then, ladies and gentlemen, Shania Twain is the best performer out there.

There's something undeniably attractive in her voice, as you listen to these tracks (starting with "Forever and For Always" and working your way back to "Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under," with only a few gaps in between). Husband/producer/cowriter Mutt Lange certainly has an ear for a hit; and Twain's lyrics, while never the best in the world, are honest enough to appeal to the masses. This is an album by a woman who knows where she stands in life and is happy with it; it is an album by a country artist with an undeniable pop edge (though new track "Don't", one of the best on here, has a more traditional appeal than her UP! and COME ON OVER material). This is an album for Shania Twain fans, and those who wish to become fans.