The Best Of! - Morrissey Compilation and Overview Rhino/Warner

In this review of The Best Of! the reviewer finds a focused compilation that works best for listeners who want Morrissey highlights without diving into full albums. The collection gathers essential solo tracks from the singer's early post-Smiths period, including the standout singles from Viva Hate and selections from Bona Drag. For newcomers or casual fans seeking the familiar singles and sharp lyrical moments, this compilation offers an accessible, well-paced snapshot of Morrissey's solo beginnings and is worth considering for a compact introduction.

Key Features

• Essential singles compiled: Brings together prominent solo singles so listeners can hear Morrissey highlights in one place without hunting through multiple releases.
• Viva Hate representation: Includes key tracks like Everyday Is Like Sunday and Suedehead, which showcase Morrissey's early solo songwriting and vocal character.
• Bona Drag inclusion: Features notable non-album singles and B-sides such as Interesting Drug and Hairdresser On Fire, giving a sense of his single-driven era.
• Focused chronology: Concentrates on the late 1980s and early 1990s solo period, so the collection feels cohesive for that chapter of his career.
• Good entry point: Serves casual listeners and those new to Morrissey who want a concise overview before exploring full albums.

Who It's For

The Best Of! is best for casual Morrissey fans, new listeners, and collectors who want a compact set of key solo tracks from the singer's early post-Smiths output. If the appeal is hearing the singles that defined his initial solo career-Everyday Is Like Sunday, Suedehead and a selection of Bona Drag material-this compilation delivers those moments without the commitment of several albums.

Listeners seeking a deep album-by-album experience or the full context of original LP sequencing should look elsewhere; The Best Of! prioritizes standout tracks and singles rather than presenting complete albums or exhaustive rarities.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Collects Morrissey singles from Viva Hate and Bona Drag for a concentrated listening session.
• Includes well known tracks that highlight his voice and lyrical style, ideal for new fans.
• Good flow between singles and B-sides that keeps the compilation engaging.

Cons

• Not comprehensive: it focuses on highlights and omits full album contexts and deeper rarities.

Specifications

Title	The Best Of!
Artist	Morrissey
Label	Rhino/Warner Records
Includes tracks from	Viva Hate; Bona Drag and non-album singles
Notable tracks	Everyday Is Like Sunday; Suedehead; Interesting Drug; Hairdresser On Fire
Focus era	Late 1980s to early 1990s solo career

Our Verdict

The Best Of! is a practical, value-minded compilation for anyone who wants the most recognizable Morrissey solo singles in one package. It is well suited to casual listeners and those sampling his post-Smiths work, offering key songs from Viva Hate and Bona Drag without extraneous material. For purchasers who prioritize concise curation over comprehensive anthology, this collection represents good value and an approachable entry point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this compilation include tracks from Viva Hate?
Yes, it includes key tracks from Viva Hate such as Everyday Is Like Sunday and Suedehead.

Are non-album singles and B-sides included?
Yes, the collection features selections from Bona Drag and notable B-sides like Hairdresser On Fire.

Is this a complete anthology of Morrissey solo work?
No, it is a highlights compilation focused on early solo singles rather than a complete anthology.