The Very Best of Sheryl Crow (by Sheryl Crow, Rock)

Sheryl Crow's modernized "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" ethos provides the theme for THE VERY BEST OF SHERYL CROW -- a perfect introduction for anyone unfamiliar with the artist, covering ten years or so of legendary hits. For those familiar with her irresistible musical hooks and slightly edgy lyrics, it's a compilation of her most popular offerings. They're all here, starting with "All I Wanna Do," Sheryl Crow's first big hit, right up to "Picture," her brand-new duet with Kid Rock (yeah, the one with the inane and incomprehensible lyrics that you've been hearing on Country radio stations), a bubbly collection of mostly well-written (and VERY well-produced) hits that will be familiar to anyone with a car radio.

The lyrics bog down just a bit in lovesick codependency and self-involved angst, actually perfect for many teens. But this "best of" compilation is a terrific summertime party record with no surprises, and without the less appreciated "filler" material on Crowe's albums. The melodies get in your head and stay there. All in all, here's a CD that was made for summer parties and carefree road trips; open that sun roof, turn up the volume, hit the highway, and sing along.

Released on: November 4, 2003
Label: A&M Records
Genre: Rock