THE VELVET UNDERGROUND : THE BEST OF - WORDS AND MUSIC OF LOU REED [Verve]

The legacy of the Velvet Underground has grown to mythic proportions as the decades wear on, and their influence continues to impact new generations of musicians. This best-of collection takes the most direct route, leaning heavily on popular selections from the band's 1967 debut, like "I'll Be Your Mirror" and "Femme Fatale," both sung by Nico. The collection also feautures the title track from their more experimental second album, White Light/White Heat, and the sprawling "Heroin". Tunes like the hauntingly beautiful "Pale Blue Eyes" and "Sweet Jane," from the later album Loaded, pair nicely with rockers like "What Goes On" and "I Can't Stand It". This record serves as an excellent introduction to one of the most quietly perfect bands in the history of rock music.