Van Halen

Best Of Volume 1

Not bad, roll on the complete recordings box set

Review Score:

(6/10)
Van Halen were a pretty good rock band in the 80s. These days, though, they aren't just remembered for their music, but the egos and bust ups that lead to Diamond Dave quitting/ being fired and Sammy Hagar joining. To be honest I was never really a fan of the early Van Halen (e.g. Fair Warning et al), they were, to me just a good Guitar orientated rock act with a larger than life front man, with a slightly rough edged voice. I much preferred the more inventive, and surprise surprise, more commercially successful albums, where they expanded their musical range (1984, 5150 and OU812). Sammy Hagar was a good addition to Van Halen after Diamond Dave went solo, with strong musical performances on the latter 2 albums. Diamond Dave did a good solo album in Eat 'em and Smile, but then declined after that. No for me it is the period from 1984-1989 when they were at their best, and any compilation should reflect this, and this one isn't a bad one. Roll on the complete remastered box set, that will be a far better buy than a piece meal compilation.

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