This two disc set is definitely a 'deliciously definitive' collection which effectively chronicles, through music and visuals, the entire single release history of one of the greatest British synth pop outfits whose commercial success really took off in the early 80s. OMD (or Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark if you prefer) have been down the 'greatest hits on CD' path once before however ten years ago we were only served up 18 tracks adding up to a total of 70 ½ mins. For the new release it's been swelled out to approx 77 mins thanks to an additional (in my opinion) welcome inclusion of "Genetic Engineering" and "Telegraph", both of which I was very disappointed not to see in the previous title. The real unadulterated joy of this 2008 title is of course having a second disc with this DVD presenting us with an absolute outstandingly comprehensive 31 promos (8 of which I'd not seen or heard of before!) running to just three minutes short of two hours! It's a marvellous journey from… more »

This two disc set is definitely a 'deliciously definitive' collection which effectively chronicles, through music and visuals, the entire single release history of one of the greatest British synth pop outfits whose commercial success really took off in the early 80s. OMD (or Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark if you prefer) have been down the 'greatest hits on CD' path once before however ten years ago we were only served up 18 tracks adding up to a total of 70 ½ mins. For the new release it's been swelled out to approx 77 mins thanks to an additional (in my opinion) welcome inclusion of "Genetic Engineering" and "Telegraph", both of which I was very disappointed not to see in the previous title. The real unadulterated joy of this 2008 title is of course having a second disc with this DVD presenting us with an absolute outstandingly comprehensive 31 promos (8 of which I'd not seen or heard of before!) running to just three minutes short of two hours! It's a marvellous journey from the early days of 1980's "Electricity" and "Messages" right through to the 1996 cuts "Walking On The Milky Way" and "Universal" with a wide range of energetic synth led dance numbers rubbing shoulders with more reflective soothing offerings. It's also an interesting montage of changing promo styles over the years and my highlights would include the beautiful location filming for "So In Love" and "Dreaming" plus use of tour footage for the up tempo "We Love You" and "Call My Name". "Dream of Me" presents a quite breathtaking kaleidoscopic figures promo whilst there is an enjoyably realised journey being taken during "Locomotion". I also love the playful scarecrows and couples enjoying a countryside picnic scenario used for the contemplative "Talking Loud And Clear" and think that "Maid Of Orleans" is praiseworthy for its convincing winter history narrative promo. Other favourites would be the relaxed 'feel good' atmosphere on offer for "Souvenir" (Andy driving the old red sports car), "Secret" (with its pleasing seaside setting) and "(Forever) Live and Die" (which also boasts a marvellous brass arrangement). Two other tracks with effective visuals matching easily recitable lyrics would be "If You Leave" and "Walking On The Milky Way". Although the enclosed booklet presents us with a worthy insightful three page overview of OMD it's a shame that there aren't any colour images from the promos to remind you of the delights that await you on the DVD. This is of course a minor (personal preference) blemish on a truly outstanding, faultlessly complied and presented title which should quite rightly delight all fans of British synth pop. As an introduction to OMD there really is no finer title to start with and it should absolutely be considered as an essential purchase whether or not you explore more of their back catalogue. This is definitely one of those titles, whether it be listening to the CD or watching the DVD, which is bound to have a positive emotive effect whenever I return to it. If this is your kind of music I feel certain you'll share my opinion and absolutely guarantee that you shall be as immensely happy to add this title to your collection as I am. Highly recommended!