The Essential Elvis Presley [RCA/Sony BMG] (CD - 2007)

Recording information: 07/05/1954-02/04/1976.

Those who need more than the single-disc set of number-one singles, but less than the full box sets covering Elvis's1950s, '60s and '70s output, will be most pleased with BMG's two-disc compilation, THE ESSENTIAL ELVIS PRESLEY. With 40 tracks in chronological order--beginning with the epochal "That's All Right (Mama)" up to the title track of his final album, "Moody Blue"--this anthology is as straightforward as its name. From the early rockabilly classics to epic romantic ballads like "Suspicious Minds" and "Always On My Mind," and from movie hits like "Viva Las Vegas" to bluesy rockers like "Reconsider Baby," all of Elvis' most important tracks are on this well-chosen set. Those who know the myths and legends more than the music would do well to start here and learn just why Elvis Presley is now and forever the King of Rock & Roll. minimize