I am really only the second person to review this album? I really think that is kind of sad. This album is one of my favoritese by him, basically because I don't think he talks about legs once, or asks what we think of his appearance. i really prefer his songs like, "Mandolin Wind" and "Maggie Mae" to "Hot Legs" (though I really cannot say I dislike that song) and "D'ya Think Im Sexy" (that one drives me crazy- can't stand it!) He has some really great songs on here, even some songs that tell stories- for instance, "Cut Across Shorty" tells the story (with a moral- AHH!) of a short little poor guy who wants to "win Miss Lucie's hand". So basically, he runs in a race and in order to win (for this is the way that they are going to determine who gets Lucie: Dan or Shorty) he cuts across the middle with Ms. Lucie cheering him on! it is really a cute song, not to be expected from Stewart. And who cannot like the melonchony sounds of "Man Of Constant Sorrow"? The name of this CD wraps it up- this album is pure Vintage!

My friends laughed when I bought this, thinking of the "D'Ya Think I'm Sexy?" Stewart, but this disc is a true sampling of roots rock, with Rod's early folk influences shining through. Has original studio versions of all the familiar early hits, but one of the best tracks is the seldom-heard "Jo's Lament," a classic tale of lost love. Disappointing renditions of "That's All Right Mama" and "Amazing Grace" are the only misfires on this one.

Mercury/polygram/universal/whatever they're called now has diluted the market with a dizzying number of early Rod Stewart compilations, and still failed to do a definative single disk. Thankfully, his first four albums are all currently available... they contain lots of wonderful music. So does this album, for that matter. The sound is excellent, and it manages to steer clear of the miserable "Smiler"... but where are "Twisting the Night Away" and "I Know I'm Losing You"? Ah well... things would be different if I ran the zoo.