Amy Grant - Greatest Hits (Special Edition)

Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

In line with the current trend of releasing enhanced albums alongside standard releases, EMI CMG have done just that with this two disc collection of the CCM pioneer's greatest hits. Disc one contains 19 digitally remastered tracks from her back catalogue in reverse chronological order, showcasing the development, skill and durability of a woman who has weathered musical and personal storms to remain at the top of the tree after 30 years in the business. The bonus DVD contains a fascinating and illuminating 40 minute interview with the songstress as its main feature in which Amy charts her musical career from the lead up to her eponymous debut in 1977 to the release of 'Simple Things' in 2003. Grant's passion for music and the resulting friendships with other musicians is what really comes across and she sticks to this subject matter with no mention of her ex-husband Gary Chapman and subsequent marriage to country star Vince Gill. There is however an overriding sense that she has gained a lot of wisdom following some pretty intense periods of her life and that her feet are firmly on the ground in terms of what is important in life. Also featured on this handsome compilation are five music videos - the making of which Grant confesses was a chore - with her big hit "Baby Baby", "Lead Me On", "Every Heartbeat", the Vince Gill duet "House Of Love" and the more up to date and polished "Takes A Little Time" making an appearance. An acoustic version of the latter song is also included, together with a host of other goodies such as ringtones, photo galleries and the like. Coupled with the songs on disc one, this is a superb document of the legacy of one of music's finest artists and well worth the extra money if you haven't already bought the standard release.