There's already been two excellent compilations in this series - 1969/1974 and 1974/1979, and this latest release is a quite superb 19 track addition to the series.

But the reality is that this disc has already appeared before as the third disc in the recent Platinum Collection. Here though, it's supplemented by a 15 track DVD of Bowie's videos from the era.

It says a lot about the quality of Bowie's extensive back catalogue that the quality control of what's on offer here is set so high.

It kicks off with Let's Dance and Ashes To Ashes working it's way through the cream of the albums Scary Monsters, Let's Dance, Tonight, and Never Let Me Down, including rarities like Alabama Song, Drowned Girl, the excellent Cat People, When The Wind Blows, and Underground.

Like the two preceding discs it's peppered with hits, and is a highly enjoyable romp down memory lane with nary a runt in sight. I'd rate it as the second best disc in the series.

And, of course, you get the videos. Worth a watch, but not something you're going to watch with any regularity.

If you've got no Bowie, then The Platinum Collection is the way to spend your lose change. But if you've got the two previous releases, this is an essential addition.

****

Review by Pete Whalley

Platinum Collection

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly