PARADISE LOST is not a band that does too many compilations (Live albums aside), unlike a lot of bands that release a greatest hits album after ever two studio albums, PARADISE LOST in their illustrious quarter of a century long career have released only one compilation album titled "Reflections" and that was a long time ago, and so it's time for the bands second compilation, and once again, the band surprises, instead of releasing the standard "best of", they have decided to treat the fans with a B-sides and rarities compilation.

So, what's in store for us? A lot of things we haven't heard, or at least things that people who haven't been able to get the special editions of their latest albums haven't heard. That's right; the album consists of mainly bonus tracks that were featured on digipack / vinyl / special editions of the bands albums, in addition to some covers. The real gem are re-recordings of two of the bands classic songs "Our Savior" from the band's debut "Lost Paradise" and "Gothic" of the sophomore album of the same name. The record is more intended for fans than the general public, some things are just fascinating to hear.

Take "Missing" for example, it's a cover of dance duos EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL hit single, a song that I personally never considered as a candidate for a Doom / Gothic Metal reworking, but having first heard it on the special edition of the band's 2007 masterpiece "In Requiem" I was surprised at how well it worked, a rather dramatic rendition with the classic PARADISE LOST edge to it.

I also greatly recommend you go out of your way to check out the 2013 re-recordings of "Our Savior" and "Gothic", the band did a fantastic job updating these classic with a modern production and allowing the listener the rare chance to hear what these songs would sound had their classic albums been recorded today, the re-recordings feature very heavy growling vocals from frontman Nick Holmes (especially on "Our Savior") with updated production values and improved musicianship on the part of the entire band. The tracks however lose none of their edge with the newer production as they keep their classic feel.

If I was to find any fault with the compilation is that I would have liked to see "Walk Away" a SISTERS OF MERCY cover, or "How Soon is Now" a SMITHS cover both released during the "Draconian Times" period, but those are minor gripes as this album gives a glimpse at some rare and fascinating material.