Launched in celebration of his 60^th birthday, the piano man works up a fine collection of toppers from his career, but sadly misses out on some.

But on this 17 track capsule there’s the brilliant as ever ballads like Daniel, Sorry seems to be the hardest word, Sacrifice, Don’t let the sun go down on me, and Your Song. The highlight on the album would surely be the collaboration of long time songwriter Bernie Taupin and Elton on Candle in the Wind the 70s version which  an ode to Hollywood starlet Marilyn Monroe.

There are also the rocking twisters like Crocodile Rock, Saturday night’s alright (for fighting) and I’m still standing that have become all time favorites down the years. For the newer generation of fans who’ve tuned to his recent album, there’s I want love.

Being a definitive collection the album should have been a two disc at the most for many favorites such as Nikita, Can you feel the love tonight and Circle of life are not found on this album. Despite this, the album showcases the bespectacled singer at his best and gives enough reason to make you want to pick this up.

For Elton John fans.

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira