Forever Rock, Vol. 2 [Sony]

Sony Music Special Products' Forever Rock, Vol. 2 isn't much more than a sampler of classic rock staples from the Columbia and Epic vaults, but it's nevertheless an entertaining listen, mainly because it sounds exactly like yer favorite classic rock station. Apart from the occasional live variation, such as Ian Hunter's "Once Bitten, Twice Shy," everything here is still heard on classic rock stations to this very day -- Boston's "Peace of Mind," Cheap Trick's "I Want You to Want Me," Blood, Sweat & Tears' "Hi-De-Ho," ELO's "Shine a Little Love," Blue Oyster Cult's "(Don't Fear) The Reaper," Mott the Hoople's "All the Young Dudes" and Argent's "Hold Your Head Up." True, some listeners might want something unexpected on their album rock collections, but for those who want a reliably entertaining classic rock listen, this can't be beat. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine