Hits

When Geffen released Hits early on in 2004, there were a few New Edition compilations previously available, each one with its own set of problems. Released in 1991, Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 (looks like that second volume will never happen) threw in only 11 cuts; 1998's Lost in Love: The Best of Slow Jams obviously left out the upbeat numbers; 2000's All the Number Ones ignored a number of significant, albeit lower-performing, hits. More importantly, almost all of these sets -- including 1996's New Edition Solo Hits -- featured solo material recorded by various members of the group (along with the occasional Bell Biv DeVoe hit). With all of that considered, you'd be led to believe that a solid all-New Edition compilation would have to be padded out in some manner. If there's any proof that these older compilations shortchanged the group's career somewhat, it's Hits, which features 17 of New Edition's highlights, arranged chronologically from 1984's "Cool It Now" to 1996's "You Don't Have to Worry." Virtually every moment of note is included. Whether you listened to the "High Five at Nine"-type show on the pop station or the R&B station during these years, you're probably familiar with almost every single song. Needless to say, Hits is now the best one-stop New Edition fix. ~ Andy Kellman