Mis-Teeq - Greatest Hits

REVIEW

"I was initially surprised to learn Mis-teeq had released a Greatest Hits, after only two previous album releases I did wonder that they would have enough material to fill it. But the band’s 5 top 5 singles, 3 top 10 singles and 1 top 20 release all feature on the album along with a bonus DVD featuring the videos for 8 of their tracks.

Upon first listening to the album I wasn’t expecting a great deal and the cheesy computerised intro did nothing to raise my hopes. However, after my initial reaction I was pleasantly surprised, with funky garage tracks like ‘Scandalous’ leading the way, to the laid back sound of ‘Roll On’, right through to the unusual ‘Shoo Shoo Baby’ from the film Valiant – something of a style departure for Mis-teeq being a 50’s swing style track with some great harmonies, well executed by the group.

Out of the 15 tracks on the album 11 of them were very good, the few songs that let the album down although not particularly bad songs on their own, were nothing new and just sounded like re-hashed versions of other Mis-teeq songs with the same or similar backing tracks.

With many tracks featuring Alesha’s distinctive rapping style and their typical urban/garage sound, their songs set them aside from other female pop acts of the moment. More Destiny’s Child than Girl’s Aloud but with added edge and a bit more attitude, it is a shame this is their final release.

The bonus DVD on this special edition is what makes this album great value, featuring the videos of all their biggest hits. The videos are stylishly presented with ‘bling bling’ cars, exotic locations, steamy clubs, funky dance routine and glamorous outfits – making them all highly watchable. It is interesting to see the transition from their first video ‘Why’, with the 4 member line up, low budget set and wardrobe, progressing to further videos blinged to the max with high production values and a much sleeker finish. In particular ‘Can’t Get it Back’ stands out, a sassy and stylish video with more of a story to it than their other offerings, most of which are based around dance routines and location but are all visually striking.

Over all a great album with a funky fusion of pop, R’n’B and garage sounds, with only a few tracks to let it down and featuring a great bonus DVD showcasing Mis-teeq’s sassy style and attitude. At only £9.99 for CD and DVD it’s good value to boot!" - Karen Hagan