"The Very Best of Level 42" is a compilation album by Level 42, a British band known for their unique blend of jazz, pop, and rock. The album, released in 1998, is a comprehensive collection highlighting the best works of the band from their music career.
Level 42 was formed in 1980 and gained widespread popularity in the 80s and 90s. They are known for their fusion of funk, pop, jazz and rock in their music. The band's key members consisted of bassist/vocalist Mark King, keyboarder Mike Lindup, and brothers Boon Gould (guitar) and Phil Gould (drums).
"The Very Best of Level 42" album consists of 19 tracks from the band’s most successful period, including popular hits like "Running in the Family," "Lessons in Love," "Something About You," and "Leaving Me Now." These tracks aren't arranged in chronological order but are rather a mix of the band's commercial hits as well as cult favorites throughout their career.
This collection represents the band's commercial peak and offers a fantastic introduction to their smooth style, which combined Mark King's distinctive slap-bass technique and falsetto vocals with memorable hooks and a strong pop sensibility.
While some fans might quibble over what should and should not have been included in this album, it nevertheless showcases the wide variety of styles Level 42 adeptly handled during their peak years. After its release, "The Very Best of Level 42" reached #13 on the UK Albums Chart, reinforcing Level 42's lasting resonance in the music world.
