Founded in Jamestown, NY, in 1981, this sextet's literate, folk/pop-inflected music made them one of the leading alternative rock standard-bearers of the '80s. With lead vocals by Natalie Merchant, signature hits like "What's The Matter Here?" and "These Are Days" sustained their high-profile popularity for over a decade. Merchant departed for solo stardom in '93, but 10,000 Maniacs' classic material remains in the pantheon of all-time great socially conscious, thinking-people's rock.
Contains 31 cuts spanning 1982 1993, from the original band's two pre-Elektra indie releases through their last album with Merchant, the smash MTV Unplugged.
Almost 2 hours of music, newly remastered for remarkable clarity.
Disc 1 spotlights all the band's "Hits," while Disc 2 offers an irresistible, career-spanning collection of 14 "Rarities."
"Rarities" boasts 5 previously unissued tracks.
Extensive booklet, designed by Natalie herself, includes in-depth liner notes by former Rolling Stoneeditor Anthony DeCurtis, and tons of rare photos.