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The Unessential Eminem
Curtain Call - The Hits - Eminem

Member Name: seano1993
Product:
Curtain Call - The Hits - Eminem
Date: 18/11/10
Rating:
Advantages: Some Great Songs, Excellent Live Version of Stan
Disadvantages: Poor track list for Eminem's Greatest Hits
This Eminem compilation was released in 2005, and contains his top-selling 12 songs and four extra songs.
Greatest Hits CDs can be hit or miss, and this one is in the latter category. Most of Eminem's best songs weren't released as singles so instead of a true "Best Of" we simply get a compilation of Eminem songs that contain catchy choruses. "Like Toy Soldiers" and "Just Lose It" are probably his two worst singles, yet they are included ahead of such Eminem classics as "Just Don't Give A Fuck" and "Superman". Disappointedly for the die-hard fans who buy this CD despite having all of his albums already (eg. me), the three new songs rank as some of his poorest as well. "Fack" is an absolute embarrassment of a song, while "Shake That" is mediocre at best, despite the presence of the usually dependable Nate Dogg. "When I'm Gone is in the same sappy letter to my daughter format as "Mockingbird" except worst, featuring some disappointingly simple lyrics and an uninspired violin backing track.
There is however, one song that will convince the Eminem die-hards to part with their hard-earned cash. The bonus track is a live version of "Stan", recorded at the Grammys and featuring music legend Elton John. It manages to improve on an already brilliant original (which is included here also) with amazing live instrumentation, complimenting the frantic nature of the song as Eminem really shows his emotions, telling the story of a crazed fan that comes to a tragic fan. This song ups the rating of this compilation of one star on its own.
Some of the songs are well able to stand up on their own: "Cleaning Out My Closet", "My Name Is" and "Way I Am" all stand out. The anthem "Lose Yourself is handily included, seeing as it doesn't feature on any of Eminem's albums.
While this CD contains some great songs, as a representation of Eminem's best material it is a disappointment. Apart from the live version of "Stan", I would advise Eminem Stans to stay well away, as this compilation is only necessary for the most casual Eminem fan.
Summary: Mediocre introduction to Slim Shady

