Morrissey, with his dreamy, sullen persona, his wounded soul and catchy melodies, has always been one of those artists that most people have a fondness for. He's always conducted himself gracefully, and it's certainly true that over the years he has attracted a fatally loyal following. This greatest hits compilation showcases his absolute best work since leaving The Smiths in the late 80's and pursuing his tremendous solo career.

As one might expect, The Best of Morrissey contains almost every hit that all the fans remember and love from Morrissey's solo work with very few left out. The CD kicks off with the melodic hum-along MTV hit "The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get," and from there on in you're hooked. Following up is the classic "Suedehead" and the somber yet terrific mood-setter, "Everyday is Like Sunday," which are both from his solo-breakthrough album, Viva Hate." Also included are charming favorites like the witty "Last of the Famous International Playboys," the danceable "Hairdresser on Fire" and the happy pop number "Sing Your Life," which is the only song included from the ill-fated Kill Uncle album.

Morrissey's more lyrical and musical sanguine side is represented as well with songs like the joyful and inspirational "Now My Heart is Full," and the soaring and thunderous "I Know It's Gonna Happen Someday." The CD also includes some of Morrissey's saddest songs, which ironically, happen to be some of his best. His melancholy ode to the Elephant Man "November Spawned a Monster" and the harsh and truthful "Hold On To Your Friends." Both of these songs demonstrate the depth of his pathos, as well as his endearing humanity. Also included are the good-old catchy pop numbers like "We Hate it When Our Friends Become Successful," "Sunny," "Tomorrow" (which was also an MTV hit) and the bouncing "Certain People I Know." Along with "Sunny" Morrissey's later work, is given fair weight with the inclusion of the lovely "Alma Matters," (from the highly-underrated album "Maladjusted"). I was pleased to see songs such as these thrown in because they show how he's changed and grown as an artist. Even though songs like "Ouija Board, Ouija Board," and "You're The One For Me, Fatty" are missing, there are enough memorable hits here to satisfy all but the most picayune of his fans