Robert Palmer - Collected FLAC

Compiled by the Dutch arm of Universal Music Group, this comprehensive retrospective of the late Robert Palmer’s music output appears promising. It’s the first collection to span the entirety of the singer’s professional career between 1969 and 2003, and features all of Palmer’s UK solo singles, along with soundtrack contributions, select remixes, and other material. Additionally, Palmer’s collaborative work in three bands is represented.

While not marketed on this concept, “Collected” would ideally include all of the proper single edits for each selection. However, the compilers were either unambitious, or did not have access to all of the original recordings. Consequently, album versions comprise the majority of tracks here, with more questionable choices noted below:

1.6 “Every Kinda People” – remixed version from the 1989 “Addictions” compilation.

1.9. “Bad Case Of Loving You” – remixed version from the 1989 “Addictions” compilation.

2.1 “Addicted To Love” – remixed version from the 1989 “Addictions” compilation.

2.7 “Tell Me I'm Not Dreaming” – 12” Edit of Al B. Sure’s Westerville Mix from US single. While technically a minor rarity, this remix is inferior to the album version.

3.5 “Pride” – the US Remix by Francois Kervorkian, which differs to the UK extended version (the corresponding A side to “Parade Of The Obliterators”).

3.7 “You Are In My System” – an annoyingly early fade of the 6 minute remix.

Missed opportunities and troublesome track variations aside, the release’s more prevalent problem is its overly loud volume – an industry standard practice that unfortunately plagues most contemporary music products. And no discernible remastering was conducted – the original recordings have merely been boosted to the same excessive level.

A peculiarity of the packaging should be noted – the cardboard digipak only has two plastic disc trays; the third CD is stored in one of the panels, analogous to the booklet. Whether this design was a cost-saving measure or an accidental oversight is unknown.

Given its lack of rare material and sub-optimal sound quality, “Collected” will disappoint obsessive collectors and audiophiles. But for casual fans, “Collected” provides a solid overview of Robert Palmer’s exceptional oeuvre.