It’s the rare greatest-hits album that takes on a life of its own. Generally, best-of collections are superceded by updated retrospectives. Hot Rocks is one of the rare exceptions to the rule. Originally released in 1972, it instantly became the Stones intro of choice, elbowing aside Big Hits, High Tide and Green Grass and Through the Past Darkly. Why? It happened to hit the racks when Mick and company were at their creative peak. The 21 tracks found here represent seven years o [Read More...]
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I was and am too emersed in too many bands and artists to attempt to start collecting the Rolling Stones’ essential albums. Their discography is way too big. Hot Rocks has all of the really essential songs you could want(at least the early ones). It goes with me on every trip. There isnt a bad song on here (shocking, yes, I know). In fact there isn’t even a song that is just okay. This is two full discs of classic songs, perfect for someone who isn’t wholly firmiliar with the Stones. It will make you want to buy more of their records.
If you’re thinking about buying this CD, chances are you are a relatively new fan of the Stones, and are looking for a good CD to get you started. Look no further. This is an excellent compilation of the biggest hits the Stones had when they were the hottest rock band in the world.
Highlights on Disc One include “Satisfaction” (which is quite possibly the best rock song ever recorded), the dark “Paint It Black,” and the gorgeous ballad “Ruby Tuesday.” On Disc Two the best include the rocking “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” the redneck-flavored “Honky Tonk Woman,” and the ambitious statement “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” But every single song is worth a listen, I generally don’t skip any tracks.
If you are already a Stones fan, chances are you already have most of these songs on their respective albums. But if you are just starting to come around, I definitely recommend Hot Rocks as a smart buy.