Adult rock: for those people who are unable to stomach the anger, loud guitars and bad attitude of punk rock; see Celine Dion and latter-day Genesis for further reference. But let's not just concentrate on the bad things, for in the more than capable hands of The Carpenters, the skills of the protagonists belied the whole cosiness which often undermines some of the greater works in this genre. Karen Capenter was a great singer who didn't need to over-elaborate or over-emote; the clarity and soothing timbre of her voice was a lesson in effective conciseness that the Mariah Carey's of this world have obviously never paid attention to. Add to that the production and songwriting skills of brother Richard and you have a sibling partnership of the highest order. This 2CD collection comprises a collection of singles that, for the most part, gives easy listening a good name. Just for the sake of picking out a few highlights, '(They Long To Be) Close To You' and 'We've Only Just Begun' (Richard's harmonies being an unexpected highlight) are obvious choices, 'Calling Occupants Of Interplanetary Craft' was an admirable choice of a cover version carried off with imagination and vigour, 'All You Get From A Love Song' and 'Touch Me When We're Dancing' are perfect pop records and 'I Just Fall In Love Again' is sopping great romanticism par excellence. Avoiding pretentiousness and schmaltz this compilation is a worthy - if unfashionable - addition to any music lover's collection.