Goo Goo Dolls What I Learned About Ego, Opinion, Art & Commerce CD

Its musical merits notwithstanding, this best-of compilation may just be the first of its kind in that the songs are arranged in reverse chronological order, beginning with the most recent (in this case "Bulletproof," from 1998's DIZZY UP THE GIRL). In any case, this aural document of the Doll's 15-year recording career (interesting historical perspective: that's twice as long as the Beatles) is an all but perfect snapshot of their ability to combine pop hooks, punk guitars, and blue-collar angst into one passionate, accessible package.

The collection itself is impeccably crafted. The song selection is just about ideal (although fans may bemoan the absence of "Long Way Down," from A BOY NAMED GOO). Nearly everything has been remixed (which means the older songs have more or less the same aural sheen as the more expensively produced recent material) and there's a particularly nice bonus in a way-overdue studio version of long-time concert favorite "Two Days in February." If you're just discovering these guys, this is a great place to start.

Compilation. Songs Are Remixed & Remastered (1987-1998)

Goo Goo Dolls: Johnny Rzeznik (vocals, guitar); Robbie Takac (vocals, bass); Mike Malinin (drums).

Producers: Armand John Petri, Rob Cavallo, Gavin MacKillop, Lou Giordano, Goo Goo Dolls.

Engineers include: Mike Sak, Allen Sides, A.J. Petri.

Personnel: Melora Creager, Rasputina (cello); Tal Herzberg (programming).

Audio Mixers: Chris Lord-Alge; Gavin MacKillop; Lou Giordano; Armand John Petri.

Audio Remixer: Chris Lord-Alge.

Recording information: Beartracks Studio, Suffern, NY; Metal Works, Mississuaga, Canada; Ocean Way Recording, Hollywood, CA; Record One; Track Master Audio, Buffalo, NY; Track record.

Photographer: Chris Eselgroth.

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.