The formula for this review is simple: two stars were awarded for the compilation of songs included in this deluxe version, and one star for the video compilation. In this age of 17 greatest hits packages for any artist who put out two records, you just don’t need to purchase every single one that is out there. Billy has received the greatest-hits treatment several times including 1985’s remix album Vital Idol and the very strong Greatest Hits from 2001. All 14 tracks off of that compilation are represented on this release. That leaves four additional songs, including two new ones recorded specifically for this super-duper deluxe, very best of. “World Coming Down” from Devil’s Playground has a Green Day pop punk feel and is a strong track. “John Wayne,” a new song, is a good one. It starts with an atmospheric and busy bass line until it builds to a rocking chorus. The production is full but not crowded and the melody has traces of a slowed-down “White Wedding” in it. Idol sounds inspired when he stretches his voice in sections. This is the best song he has produced in a long time; then again, he hasn’t been the most productive artist recently, with only three releases of new material in the last 18 years (1990’s Charmed Life, 1993’s disastrous Cyberpunk and 2005’s decent Devil’s Playground). “New Future Weapon,” the other new track, is average at best, adding nothing to the Idol legacy. The other tracks, the ones you know, that mix punk attitude, new wave, pop and elements of hard rock, speak for themselves and have been etched in our collective pop culture recall. You probably don’t need to hear “Mony Mony” ever, ever again except when that obnoxious DJ implores everyone to get on the dance floor at that fabulous (white?) wedding you find yourself at (when is he going to play “Celebration”?). The videos are a trip through neon, big ’80s hair and all the Billy Idol sneering you can possibly stand. They were innovative at the time but appear to be a bit dated now. They are worth a look and a chuckle or two. If you have no Billy Idol, this is a fine purchase. If you are a freak for videos in an age where you can only find the stuff on VH-1 classic, then this is for you. If you have a previous collection, download “John Wayne” and “World Coming Down” and call it a day. (Capitol)
