Back catalogue: Pop

Review: The CD edition of a wider multi-format reissue, Greatest documents, well, the greatest greatest hits compilation to span the steadfast, enduring work of Brum new romantic hopefuls turned interstellar pop stars Duran Duran. Originally released in 1989, The Greatest is a choice career retrospective and update to the earlier 1989 compilation album Decade, where the new wave band's evolution over the elapsing of yet another decade solicited further tribute. Tracks like 'Notorious' flaunt their seamless move into funk-infused pop, while 'The Reflex' catches the polished, experimental edge of their mid-80s era. And of course, the Bond theme "A View To A Kill" remains to this day the only 007 theme to reach number one in the US.

Review: When it comes to Christmas cheer in recorded form, no one does it better than a true pop diva. Mariah may wear the crown for some of her most iconic efforts, but who could ask for more than Kylie belting out a whole album's worth of seasonal classics? Australia's premier cultural export has the clout to call up some heavyweight collaborators, whether it's Frank Sinatra joining in on 'Santa Claus Is Coming To Town' or Iggy Pop joining in on 'Christmas Wrapping', but Minogue can carry most of these festive nuggets all on her own.

Review: Although some listeners stopped paying attention after the early 90s, the Pet Shop Boys have continued to make top-notch pop music, much of it rooted in their collective love of dance music. 'Smash', their third 'greatest hits' retrospective, offers extensive proof of this assertion. Across three discs, we're treated to every single released so far by the iconic synth-pop duo over their close to 40-year career. Yes, the familiar favourites are all present, but also lesser-celebrated gems from the past two decades including fan favourites such as 'Monkey Business' (with its cheery evocation of 1970s disco), 'The Pop Kids' (a deliberately nostalgic affair that will appeal to those who got into them back in the day) and the second Iraq War-era 'I'm With Stupid'.

Review: Pet Shop Boys' 15th album, nonetheless, produced by James Ford, brilliantly blends widescreen pop with dance influences. Written during lockdown, it shifts away from pure bangers to a more reflective tone, reminiscent of their earlier work like Behaviour and Elysium. The nostalgic feel begins with the artwork and continues throughout the tracks. 'Loneliness' starts the album, growing in appeal with each listen. 'Feel,' a heartfelt romantic track, and 'Why Am I Dancing,' originally for their forthcoming musical, showcase Neil Tennant's expressive vocals and Chris Lowe's signature production touches. 'New London Boy' reflects on past experiences with both sadness and joy, featuring Tennant's return to rapping. 'Dancing Star,' about Rudolph Nureyev's defection, fits better within the album's context than as a single. An orchestral presence adds elegance to the production. The hi-energy of the first half transitions to a more subdued second half, with standout tracks like 'A New Bohemia' and the quirky 'The Schlager Hit Parade.' 'The Secret of Happiness' is a stunning, 60s-tinged epic, reminiscent of a James Bond theme. The album concludes with 'Bullet for Narcissus' and 'Love Is The Law,' maintaining the duo's unique flair. nonetheless no doubt reaffirms Pet Shop Boys' place in pop, oozing class and confidence.