Sleeve: Fuzzy bearded Bruce on the front; profile shot of Bruce holding his guitar in an empty venue on the back.

Sleevenotes: Booklet with intro by Bruce, all the lyrics and line-ups.

Content: Two main CDs, with 30 tracks culled from a 30-year career. Chronological order is followed. All the expected songs are here, such as 4th Of July, Asbury Park (Sandy), Rosalita (Come Out Tonight), Badlands, Born In The U.S.A, Born To Run, Glory Days and Darkness On The Edge Of Town.

High point: Bonus Disc on certain editions. This 12-track delight contains live recordings and alternative takes. Wonderful stuff, including moving version of Trapped, Missing and a bluegrass interpretation of Countin' On A Miracle.

Low point: Nothing really, except perhaps Mary's Place.

Any glaring omissions?: Everything obvious is included.

Anything new?: Without the bonus disc, no; with it, plenty.

Justified or feeble excuse for release?: There have been previous collections. But with the bonus disc, this stands as a glowing testament to a remarkable musical career.

Where might this end up at Christmas?: With Springsteen fans who had previously clung to their vinyl.

Updated: 16:09 Wednesday, December 17, 2003