1987 THINGS THAT MATTER MOST TO ME [Polygram]
Tom Jones' flirtation with country-pop was his mid-career masterstroke. Just as his recording stocks looked headed for the slag-heap, he hit the charts again with 1981's multi-million seller, Darlin', the best of which is included on this compilation. Throws in a convincing makeover of his signature Green, Green Grass Of Home for good measure.
1998 THE BEST OF TOM JONES [Polygram]
Considered the definitive hits collection, it carries all the big ones - 22 in all - from 1965's It's Not Unusual, What's New Pussycat?, Thunderball, She's A Lady, Delilah through 1988's camp classic Kiss. The soundtrack to many a middle-aged naughty and clearly assembled with new fans in mind.
1999 RELOAD [V2]
This inspired stab at the youth demographic introduced another generation to Jones' vocal acrobatics via deftly chosen material and some hip artists. A funked-up version of Talking Heads' Burning Down The House in the company of the Cardigans sets the tone for what is a hugely enjoyable ride. The list of credits alone is mind-boggling (Randy Newman, Cerys from Catatonia, Johnny Marr, Van Morrison, etc).