The Kink Kronikles (CD - 1972)

This set was originally released in 1972, just after The Kinks regained their footing on the charts with "Lola." THE KINKS KRONIKLES still stands as one of the finest examples of a collection that touches on favorites while rescuing otherwise lost or forgotten songs which never made it onto albums or were released when no one was listening. The number and quality of songs that never made it to North American shores is astounding. "Dead End Street" is a case in point--the band even produced a promotional film for this number, but it was never even released in America. Several selections are from the PERCY soundtrack; others are from on assorted EPs and 45s. Ending his essay with "God save the Kinks," music critic John Mendelsohn's notes are the perfect mix of educated listener and unabashed fan. Far from being a catchall, THE KINK KRONIKLES is a great album in its own right. Exhilarating for both the informed follower and the newly arriving curious, this is an essential release. minimize