Procol Harum is a band that is (these days anyway) rather obscure, but has had a definite influence on rock music, in general, and progressive rock, in particular. "Best Of" albums seldom are that, and whether or not this one is certainly falls under the area of debate. However, the album is a good introduction to the many sides of this complex and intriguing band. For those who only know of the group's two hits, "Whiter Shade of Pale" and "Conquistador," the disc provides both of them. However, for the more knowledgeable fans, it has a purpose, too. Fans of progressive rock will certainly find a lot of the material here of interest. Besides the aforementioned "Whiter Shade of Pale," which some consider the first progressive rock song, there are other showings of early prog here. "A Salty Dog" is certainly one of these. The song "Simple Sister" is both a solid rocker and, seemingly, a big influence on Chicago's "25 or 6 to 4." "Shine On Brightly" showcases the group's psychedelic tendencies and Beatles influences.

As far as budget-line compilations are considered, 10 Great Songs is as straightforward as it gets. The disc contains Paula Abdul's first ten charting singles, from “Knocked Out” through “Vibeology.” That means that each one of her six consecutive number one singles – “Straight Up,” “Forever Your Girl,” “Cold Hearted,” “Opposites Attract,” “Rush, Rush,” and “The Promise of a New Day” – is included. “It’s Just the Way That You Love Me” and “Blowing Kisses in the Wind,” both of which reached the Top Ten, are here as well. This is all that most casual Abdul fans could possibly need.

If Colin Blunstone had only recorded the hits by the Zombies (such as "Tell Her No," "Time of the Season," and "She's Not There") he should and would be a household name. However, Blunstone had an equally impressive solo career. This collection documents his excellent Epic/CBS sides, especially those from his exquisite One Year album. Tracks from that include "Say You Don't Mind," a suburb song written by Denny Lane (ex-Moody Blues, future Wings), as well as Blunstone's original "Caroline Goodbye," which very well may be the finest record of 1970. Add to this the impressive tracks from albums like Ennismore and others, and you have the real voice of the 1970s that was sadly under-appreciated and certainly under-heard. Like a gossamer cloth, it sweeps elegant.