All Star United
Smash Hits
Essential Records
2000

When I first heard that All Star United was coming out with a greatest hits CD I laughed. Was this some kind of joke? What kind of band comes out with a 'best of' CD after only two albums? Even for a quirky band like All Star United, this is absurd. I was soon to discover, however, that All Star United left their record company, Essential Records. Meaning Essential either had one more record on their contract or just wanted to ride the fame of All Star United for one more album.

Though most songs on this CD are great--I know them from the previous two releases--the CD really disappointed me. Maybe I was expecting more new material. Maybe their definition of "greatest hits" isn't the same as mine.

If you really want to understand what listening to Smash Hits is like, put All Star United's self titled debut and International Anthems for the Human Race in a multi-disc changer and hit shuffle. That's what Smash Hits entails.

I loved both their previous albums. Songs like 'Smash Hit,' 'Superstar,' 'Popular Americans,' and 'Tenderness' were great the first time around. Hearing them on Smash Hits didn't lessen their standing as quality songs. The album also features two new songs (three if you count the "acoustic" remix of 'Saviour of My Universe'). The two new songs, 'Hang On' and 'Baby Come Back' were probably left off the earlier albums for a reason. Quite simply, they lack the quality, the integrity, and the thoughtfulness of other All Star United songs.

I tried to make the best of this strange CD: If I wanted to listen to All Star United in my car or somewhere else and could only bring one CD, this would be it. But that's a pretty weak justification for spending $15. Anyway, I'd rather listen to their first two releases. Smash Hits leaves out some of the best All Star United songs like 'I Need You Now' from International Anthems.

If you are a diehard All Star United fan this CD offers two new songs and a remix. But in all honesty, I suggest you save your money. Although the familiar songs are great, Smash Hits has nothing new to offer. (Shawna T.)