The Gang of Four may be the smartest of all the punk and post-punk bands. That they are also very funky (in a sort of abrasive herky-jerky stop-start kind of way) helps too, doesn't it?

This chronological collection shows the band getting progressively more dance-oriented and poppy (or simply getting progressively worse, depending on your perspective), but even when they're using back-up singers and drum machines, there's an irony to it that's subversive and engaging. Some might even say more subversive than the earlier, more rock-oriented stuff.

I'm not sure if a rock and roll band can change how someone thinks, but if anyone can do it, it's probably these guys.

gang of four were THE definitive politico-funk-punk group (was there even another one?!). this music truly sounds like none other created before or since, that i've ever heard, at least. a lot of post-punk bands can be traced back to them, and mission of burma were obviously fans, but nobody *sounds* like gang of four...syncopated minimalism, screamed lyrics, a friggin' tight-ass rhythm section...this is communism you can dance to! this particular cd is a best-of...comprised mostly of their near-flawless first two recordings, with a smattering of highlights from their unfortunate descent into new wave.

Simply put, Gang of Four hits the cords that make up our lives. In that, I mean that if we all look within ourselves there hide ironies and bits of gloom. And what this CD/album brings out is a sort of desperation that lies dormant in us and is all too bitter sweet. I don't know about you but I love it when my demons are released and memories that are not usually pleasant sit next to me as I listen to the lyrics. I love this stuff. It's great therapy.

I was informed by a friend that my review had one glaring mistake and one glaring omission. firstly 'I love a man in a uniform' is on GO4's 3rd album Songs of the Free (which by the way is an amazing album)and second, 'A brief history...' is incomplete due to the omission of Entertainments 'I found that essence rare', arguably (but not in our camp) the bands best song. The rest still applies (see below).

The Gang of Four are one of those wonderful bands that somehow managed to fall betwen the cracks nad not be recognized during their original lifespan for their genius. Their influence is far reaching, and the quality of their own work is impeccable. "We Live As We Dream, Alone" is the band's most important work, combining thems of alienation with a condemnation of consumer culture, fascism and sex. These themes resonane throughout the album in different ways, be it the dissatisfaction of "What We All Want" or the desperate paranoia of "Damaged Goods." As far as compliations go, ABH is superb and offers most of the band's best in a smooth listen (unlike the other G4 compliation, which is a mess). A great introduction to the band.