The Best of Tom Booth

As excited as we all are by a best-of Booth collection-and let there be no doubts that this is a HUGE release, something we've all wanted for a long time-it begs the question: how did they ever pick the tracks? Talk about a daunting task: try narrowing down Tom's stellar discography-six albums, upwards of 100 songs, and more on the way-to just one disc. This collection is an ear-pleasing mix of time-tested favorites, Unity Award winners, and hits from his most recent album, Unravel.

Released during Tom's nationwide tour with John Michael Talbot (the "Monk Rock Tour"), the disc includes two brand new songs and 14 classics from his previous albums, several of them re-mixed and re-recorded to sound better than ever. From edgy, hard-rocking epics like "Taste of Heaven" to wispy acoustic ballads like "My Lady," the album reflects the wide range of moods and styles?and the intensity of devotion?in Tom's music.

It's only fitting that the new songs, "Slipping" and "You to Blame," find their way to the public on this CD. Featuring ingenious arrangements and conscience-grabbing lyrics, they both would have ended up on a best-of collection eventually.

Recorded partly at Abbey Road Studios in London, famous their Beatles albums, The Best of Tom Booth is a no-brainer must-have for Booth fans. For those who aren't familiar with him, it's an excellent introduction to one of contemporary Catholic music's most gifted artists.