The Kinks

First released in 1976, this greatest-hits package liberates from their high-concept theatrical constraints some of the best songs the Kinks put out on RCA Records, and allows them to stand alone and in sharper relief. The songs from Muswell Hillbillies shine brightest, but "Sweet Lady Genevieve" is a revelation, quaintly unjaundiced by Ray Davies' sharp, ironic eye. The oddest track is "One of the Survivors," where once again Davies tries to emulate the cool-as-an-oyster ennui of Lou Reed. As if he didn't have enough of his own. A well-chosen sampler.