Now That’s What I Call Music! (Sony)

These two sets have something for everyone.

Back in the 1970s and ’80s, music lovers were lucky enough to have a label called K-Tel Records, which furnished all hit albums to the masses. With the fall of K-Tel in the mid-1980s, it seemed the hit compilation albums were gone forever. Then came the Now That’s What I Call Music! series, which is celebrating its 57th release.
Started in 1998, the franchise has sold over 250 million records worldwide, with 97 million in the U.S. alone. All 19 releases have gone platinum, and have also ascended to number one on the charts.

Now That’s What I Call Music! 57 includes the biggest songs of today, as mega hits like “Focus” by Ariana Grande, “Wildest Dreams” performed by Taylor Swift, and “My House” from Flo Rida thump from the speakers. The 22-track opus is for lovers of modern pop music, and it does not disappoint.

Also being released is Now That’s What I Call Power Ballads Hits! The Definitive Collection. This selection of heavy love songs is one not to be ignored. Every song on this disc was a huge hit, and to have them all collected together is a treat. From slower hits like “Almost Paradise,” performed by Mike Reno (Loverboy) and Ann Wilson (Heart), to tracks like Night Ranger’s “Sister Christian” and “I Remember You,” made popular by hard rock band Skid Row.

Other featured artists include KISS, Journey, Kix, Queensryche, among others. With 18 songs, there’s a lot of music to enjoy here. Power ballads will never go out of style, and these hits prove why.
Overall, this is a great package. For those who love a good power rock love song, to those who like to hit the dance floor, this set has something for everyone. B+ | Marc Farr