The Sound of Girls Aloud: The Greatest Hits [Bonus CD] by Girls Aloud (CD, Oct-2006, 2 Discs, Universal Music)

Purchasing a greatest hits collection is always a good bet, and with Girls Aloud: The Sound of Girls Aloud, hits are exactly what you'll get. Since bursting on the scene in the winter of 2002, Girls Aloud have quickly amassed 14 consecutive top ten UK hits and they're all represented in this one collection. From debut #1 single "The Sound of the Underground" through their signature sound insta-classics like "Love Machine" and "Biology" , right up to current Top 5 smashes "Something Kinda Oooh" and their kicky cover of "I Think We're Alone Now", those sassy, saucy Brits rev up the engine and take the listener on a fun-filled, energetic romp through pop land.

They only seem to falter when they pause for a contrived ballad or two (the ill-advised covers of "I'll Stand By You" and "See The Day") but before you know it, they've shifted gears and are zooming back up to speed with roaring stompers like "No Good Advice" and "Wake Me Up". Just as the title of one of their more recent hits proclaims, there's a "Whole Lotta History" packed into this set - and if you're a true fan of Nadine, Nicola, Cheryl, Sarah and Kimberly - then opt for the deluxe 2-cd edition and be treated to some rare alternate versions, covers and unreleased tracks.