This is the most fascinating compilation release of 2004, and an unusual one. Horne is a record producer who has enjoyed an uninterrupted career spanning decades, while working with a bewildering array of artists and music. However, the emphasis of his work, as showcased here, has been primarily within the pop segment of the market.

This 2CD collection includes many single chart hits, and a couple of misses. There’s also several notorious songs including Relax by Frankie Goes To Hollywood, one of several examples that illustrates Horn’s ability to take a song and make it a bit special. Songs by Buggles (Video Killed The Radio Star), Seal (Crazy), Leanne Rimes (Can’t Fight The Moonlight), T.A.T.U. (All The Things She Said) and several more illustrate how a producer can make a or break a new artist. More often than not Horn is entrusted by record companies to launch new artists with stunningly successful results.

Included within the collection is a song that definitely did not make the charts but is superb none-the-less, and I think I understand why Horn has insisted on its inclusion. Angel At My Table by Ireland’s top band the Frames is from the 1999 album DANCE THE DEVIL. This album served as my introduction to a band that I grown to love and respect. Glen Hansard, the band’s frontman, told me on several occasions that his relationship with the record label and producer were not the best, and led ultimately to ZTT dropping the band (after allegedly failing to properly promote the album). However, Horn did a wonderful job on Angel At My Table and several other songs on an album that I still regard as a rock classic. This particular version is a a different, more dense mix from the one that appeared on the album (that I prefer). Another ‘oddity’ is the very beautiful (and new to me) You’re The One performed by Shane McGowan. The song also includes a delightful performance from a female singer who is not named on the promo copy that I received. It’s a simple and emotional stunner!

The album also includes great songs by Pet Shop Boys, ABC, Simple Minds, Lisa Stansfield, Dollar, Art Of Noise, Grace Jones and Malcolm McClaren. It is truly a fascinating compilation from a producer whose attention to detail is renowned, and willingness to tackle songs innovatively, as well as with utmost simplicity, places him in the top echelon of record producers. This is an historic and highly entertaining 30-song collection that I strongly commend to you music-lovers out there.

4.5/5