While the title of this collection by British folk icon
Ralph McTell suggests a somewhat comprehensive career-spanning anthology, it is actually culled entirely from his first three albums. The two-year span of 1968-1969 did yield a number of
McTell's most beloved songs, most notably the title cut, though "Streets of London" would not actually become a hit until it was re-released as a single in 1974. Other highlights include the beautiful "Kew Gardens," "The Mermaid & the Seagull," and "Clown." His comforting voice and impeccable fingerstyle guitar playing are worth the price alone. He went on to record plenty more fine albums throughout the '70s and '80s that are also worth anthologizing. ~ Timothy Monger