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To help fans wait for the next studio album (which, according to Proscriptor, won't be any time soon), Absu have released this double album of previously unreleased, alternate versions, cover and live tracks spanning the period from 1991 to 2001. Clocking in at about 99 minutes, this is quite an extensive set. I'm usually a bit wary of such "compilations" since they often contain tracks of very varying sound quality that make them a bitch to listen to. It is not the case here, however. Even the live tracks are of relatively good quality, and the sound levels are also adjusted so you don't have to run for the volume control while listening to the CDs. I wish more bands would pay attention to these little details. :)

Disc 1 contains the rarities and alternate version, while disc 2 contains the covers, live tracks (recorded in 1995 and 1997) as well as two previously unreleased tracks. Despite the wide variety of sources (and styles, if you take the covers into account), this ensemble flows pretty well and the next thing you know you've arrived at the end. The booklet is nicely done with several pictures, and while the lyrics are not included, there is extensive information about each song such as where the song is from (tribute album, live recording, lineup, producer, studio, etc...) There isn't much point comparing this to their studio albums, but fans of the bands are sure to find something of interest in here. This may also be a good introduction to the band for newcomers who can't decide of a studio album to start with (but keeping in mind that the material here is from varied sources and periods in the band's history.) This is quite an addictive compilation of material that I do not hesitate to recommend to fans of the genre.