The Smiths: Morrissey (vocals); Johnny Marr , Stephen Street.

Though the Smiths have been compiled numerous times, 2008's THE SOUND OF THE SMITHS is the first set to comprehensively survey the revered British college-rock band's impressive 1983-87 catalogue. Beginning with the restless "Hand in Glove," and proceeding in chronological order to spotlight other classic tracks such as the epic "How Soon Is Now?" and the achingly melancholic "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me," the lovingly remastered SOUND easily reinforces the Smiths' status as one of the all-time-great U.K. pop/rock bands, adeptly showcasing Morrissey's hyper-literate lyrics and emotive croon, as well as Johnny Marr's awe-inspiring and dynamic guitar work. The anthology, which benefits from the input of both key members, also makes room for lesser-known album selections such as "Still Ill" and "Barbarism Begins at Home," making SOUND much more than a mere singles collection.