Simply Red Album: “Stars [Collector's Edition] [Bonus DVD]”

Simply Red have always been extremely underrated here in the US and have had some major hits but continuous major success has never happened. STARS was Simply Red's 4th release and stands out as the quintessential Simply Red recording. It is simply a masterpiece and all their capabilities and strengths are put to their best use here. It was the top selling album throughout Europe in 1991 and 1992.

Their music has always been in the jazz genre while being unique and inventive at the same time. Led by the amazing vocals of Mick Hucknall they are truly original. So many tracks stand out here. SOMETHING GOT ME STARTED, THRILL ME, YOUR MIRROR and WONDERLAND are the best and most eclectic though the whole set is of the highest quality.

This 3 disc set is a definite must have for Simply Red fans, jazz fans and fans of quality music. The remastering is excellent with crystal clear sound. The first cd has the original album, sessions that Mick recorded with Robert Johnson and 6 songs recorded live in 1992 Hamburg. Simply Red is one group that sounds even better live. The second disc has 11 remixes of some of their best songs and the third disc is a dvd of their awesome 25 song performance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1992.

What more could you ask for? Simply Red have said that they will record no more new music so having remastered cds such as this with amazing bonus material is a must have. Even if you aren't familiar with Simply red this purchase will definitely satisfy.

I never ever thought they would get around to remastering anything by Simply Red. Well, this has been a most pleasant surprise indeed. Not only do you get the original release remastered but you get two other discs as well. Disc 2 is a mish-mash of different re-mixes on several songs. In some ways this is a little bit too much but interesting to listen to. Disc 3 is a DVD of the band on tour during the "Stars" release. Wow, is that cool or what! The DVD is recorded in 5.1 and actually sounds pretty good as I was somewhat apprehensive as to how it would sound. If you are a Simply Red fan then you have to add this remastered version to your collection.