All-Time Greatest Hits

Neil Diamond is that rare type of artist whose career has transcended decades, fashions, and genres. His innate flair for the dramatic plays well in an industry often dominated by stars who fail to enjoy their status as stars. Diamond immerses himself in the spoils of fame, and whether he’s singing the defiant anthem “Solitary Man” or the sentimental tearjerker “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,” he always sounds like a man who wins and loses exponentially beyond that of the average joe. This 23-track <i>All-Time Greatest Hits</i> is exactly as it states. It includes songs from throughout Diamond's lengthy career, and always his best. Hits such as “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” “Kentucky Woman,” “I’m a Believer” (a smash for The Monkees), and “I Am … I Said” capture the sound and feel of the eras from which they emerged. Diamond has an often-overlooked talent for phrasing; his influences run from Sinatra to Presley. This let him transform his songs from very nice compositions into classic hits.