WORKSHOP OF THE TELESCOPES

I think this is the most complete compilation for anyone's looking toward this band for the first time. A double cd boxset for over 150 minutes all. The whole disc 1 is dedicated to the so called "black and white" period (1972-1975) featuring many tracks from the three studio albums plus very inspired live tracks from the superb "On Your Feet or on Your Knees" album. Highly recommended.

Disc 2 is also great but obviously shows a more commercial side of the band that started off from 1976 on, with the famous album Agents of Fortune and its memorable track "(Don't Fear) The Reaper". Unfortunately 1979 album Mirrors is only represented by the Lanier's pop tune (very good by the way) "In Thee". The most interesting tracks from that album are completely missing ("The Great Sun Jester", "The Vigil"). Two live albums as Some Enchanted Evening and Extra Terrestrial Live (this one criminally represented by one track, the explosive and hardest "Dominance and Submission" originally released on Secret Treaties). Disc 2 ends with 1986 album Club Ninja.

Ok some of the most interesting tracks are really missing on both the discs: for disc 1 "Wings Wetted Down" for example. Obviously is the second disc to be miss the most due to the larger period of years (1976-1986).

Unfortunately Imaginos was not included with any of its songs. I don't know the reason why but it was certainly a bad decision.

All in all, a very useful starting point for newcomers. I recommend you to look for the recent excellent Columbia remasters.