The Story So Far - The Best of

What do Johnny Cash, Gravity Kills, Sammy Hagar and Marilyn Manson have in common with Def Leppard? That's right, they have all covered Depeche's Mode ''Personal Jesus''. Def Leppard's version is actually one of the most decent cover versions because it sounds tight instrumentally but is delivered in a relaxed way vocally. This is also the only new song on the double-disc version of this compilation. There is another new song called ''We All Need Christmas'' which isn't as cheesy as the title suggests and actually an enjoyable song for this time of the year but that new track is only included on the triple vinyl version of this release which is a shame. Let's see how long the obnoxious vinyl trend keeps going.

Most songs from this compilation come from Def Leppard's popular adult-oriented rock records from the eighties and nineties, namely Pyromania, Hysteria and Adrenalize. More recent records are also covered and even some songs that were exclusive to compilations like Vault have made it onto this release which is a nice addition for this output but somewhat disappointing for the fans that bought that other compilation decades ago. To my surprise, the songs from the band's latest self-titled record released three years ago don't only blend in well but are among the highlights of this record and have a stronger hard rock vibe than the at times exchangeable attempts at chart success in the past.

The band's early years are almost completely ignored by this release which is a missed occasion to portray the band's numerous facets and evolution. Only the power ballad and first successful single ''Bringin' On the Heartbreak'' from the High 'n' Dry release is included here. The debut record On Through the Night and the band's first extended play from the late seventies are completely ignored.

Fans of the band's heavier side can therefore completely ignore this release. If you like melodic rock music between danceable ballads and rhythmic mid-tempo tracks with a nostalgic vibe, you can buy this compilation that offers thirty-five tracks and more than two and a half hours of entertainment. This record is best played in between other compilations by similar artists like Bryan Adams and Bon Jovi. If you have a nostalgic family members who always wrongfully complains that music was so much better back in the eighties and who hasn't bought an album in years, you might have found the perfect Christmas gift here. For newcomers and occasional listeners, this record is passable but not essential. You might as well wait to get this release for a reduced price one year from here.