Big Country

Few one-hit wonders escaped the '80s with their careers intact. Scottish rockers Big Country entered the U.S. charts in 1983 with the rollicking "In a Big Country" and, like many bands, over time, lost favor with American audiences. Europe and Canada embraced the group, and saw them recording well into the new century with a renewed vigor and a devoted fan base. That they have enough quality material to devote to two singles collections is debatable, but there's no denying the occasional magic between these veterans. "Where the Rose Is Sown" features Stuart Adamson's trademark bagpipe guitar wailing over an intelligent arrangement. The extended mix, only a few tracks later, seems a bit indulgent, especially on a record that already has 23 songs on it. Other standouts include the beautiful "Winter Sky" with its odd harmonies and shimmering acoustics and the jaunty "Song of the South," another recipient of the extended mix. Big Country is a really good band, not a great one, and a single collection, celebrating their unique vision would have been sufficient. ~ James Christopher Monger, All Music Guide