The Artist Collection - RUN-DMC

he early 21st century saw the sudden arrival of several Run-D.M.C. compilations -- two each in 2002 (Greatest Hits and High Profile -- The Original Rhymes) and 2003 (The Best of Run DMC and Ultimate Run DMC), as well as an additional title in 2004 (Artist Collection). Weighing in at 14 tracks total, Artist Collection does an admirable job of collecting most of the expected favorites from this incredibly influential rap act, as well as a handful of tracks not included on the other comps. Kicking things off in grand style with the Run-D.M.C.-Aerosmith remake of "Walk This Way" (one of the top hits of 1986), you'll find such additional classics as "Rock Box," "It's Tricky," and "It's Like That," in addition to such oft-overlooked cuts as "You're Blind," "Can You Rock It Like This," and "Tougher Than Leather." While Ultimate Run DMC remains the very best Run-D.M.C. collection out there, Artist Collection is certainly not far behind. ~ Greg Prato|