Sleeve: Palmer in profile smoking a cigarette looking reflective. Moody.

Sleevenotes: Picture-packed and extensive by Scott Schinder of New York. They chart Batley-born Palmer's move to Scarborough at ten, through his time with The Alan Bown Set then Vinegar Joe with Elkie Brooks and on through his glittering solo career.

Content: One disc - 19 tracks including belters such as Bad Case Of Loving You, Every Kinda People and the big hit from his first solo album, Sneaking Sally Through The Alley. Here is the best white blues singer in the world at his very best. Check out Addicted To Love. I rest my case.

High point: Boby Dylan's I'll Be Your Baby Tonight with guests UB40.

Low point: I wish there were more lyrics to the haunting Riptide.

Glaring omissions?: Most of his other work, unfortunately.

Anything new?: A remix of Addicted To Love is hitting the club scene now.

Excuse for release: Talent such as this is always justified. Especially so since it will introduce a new generation to memorable songs.

Ideal Christmas present for: All of today's boy and girl bands. Listen and learn.

Updated: 10:13 Thursday, December 19, 2002