This three CD set covers three distinct and very different periods in Neil Diamond's massively successful career as the premier singer-songwriter to survive the 60's. Ok, Ok, maybe you are turned off by his always a few years out of style haircuts, glittery shirts and easy pop-hooks but that is no reason not to expose yourself to some of THE most enduring pop ballads of all time. With Neil Diamond Tribute bands packing clubs and even movies about the tribute artists packing Art House Theaters, it was high time VH1 premiered a BEHIND THE MUSIC on him. If like me, you just finished watching that special only to be compelled to sign on Amazon and buy as many of his CDs as you can afford, you should START WITH THIS PACKAGE. The first CD, Early Years contains his most enduring hits of the Sixties without any of the overly self-important tunes from the 70's. These are sparse and painful and sweet and timeless without the cheesy orchestra backings of the 70's material. BEAUTIFUL NOISE is his legendary partnering with The Band's Robbie Robertson and it is a stunning revelation of an album. Don't be put off that you don't know many of the songs. This record was a perfectly blended creation of sublime propertions. The last CD, the soundtrack to the THE JAZZ SINGER is just the nicest memory from my youth. The movie was pretty much a mess but as always, Diamond turned in some of the most achingly wonderful ballads like "Hello Again" and "Love on the Rocks" not to mention his Immigrant Theme Song "America" which was unfortunately co-opted by Michael Dukakis as his theme song in his unsuccessfuly presidential bid. That Dukakis even knew the song is tribute to Diamond's ability to reach wide audiences.

So, don't even hesitate, just One-click order this set right now and maybe next time he's in town, try and go see him since he's still the greatest live performer since Elvis. Believe me, after a few weeks of listening to these CDs and you'll learn to admire those beaded shirts and silly sideburns for the talent that wears them.