Choosing what to put on this album must have been quite a feat since nearly every Capercaillie song is amazing. However, the selection has been narrowed down to 17 tracks from the most recent six albums and includes some obvious choices, as well as a few more obscure pieces.

The obvious choices are "Ailein Duinn" from the Rob Roy soundtrack and "Coisich a Ruin," which was one of the only Top 40 Gaelic singles ever. No big surprise these would be here, and as they are great tracks, they are always good to hear again. The rest of the album includes a nice mix of English and Gaelic, traditional and original, tunes and songs. Original songs such as "Grace and Pride," "Outlaws," "Waiting for the Wheel to Turn" and "Four Stone Walls" not only stand up well beside the traditional Gaelic songs, but also carry strong political messages about Scottish history and its current situation.

The whole album flows well together and it presents an overview of Capercaillie's history up to 1998 aside from a variety of short albums that the group periodically recorded. It's a great primer for anyone wanting to learn more about the group. Unfortunately, due to contractual reasons, there are no tracks from the album Sidewaulk, which is noted at the end of the track list.

The liner notes include a brief history, highlighting the most significant achievements of the group. Longtime fans may not think they need this album, but the one previously unreleased track is worth the whole price by itself. A live version of "Breisleach" is the most beautiful song I've ever heard. The achingly fragile vocals, soaring through the Gaelic lyrics is not something any lover of Scottish music should miss.

This is a great album from start to finish. But we really don't expect any less from Capercaillie!

- Rambles
written by Jean Emma Price
published 6 March 2004