Laura Branigan

This Collectables compilation takes moments from three of Laura Branigan's most well-known records and compiles them onto one disc. It is not as comprehensive as 1995's Best of Branigan nor as hit-heavy as 2002's Essentials release (woefully absent is her melodramatic performance of "Solitaire"). However, this still contains all of her biggest U.S. chart-topping hits, including "Gloria," "Self Control," and "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You," a song that would later put its author -- flaxen-haired Michael Bolton -- at the top of the U.S. soft rock charts. It's an economically sensible purchase that delivers more value than most budget-line compilations. A captivating snapshot of a painfully underrated performer whose time was tragically cut short too soon. ~ Rob Theakston, All Music Guide