While this box set isn't entirely complete, it does sound as fresh and alive as the days of vinyl, courtesy of Johnny Marr's remastering efforts. The Smiths were one of the most essential bands of the '80s, reeling off a string of singles unrivaled in their intelligence, indelible hooks, and originality. Each of The Smiths' four studio albums is present here, along with their live album Rank and various singles compilations. While the sheer quantity available here is clearly aimed at Smiths fanatics, it also saves anyone looking to immerse themselves in the group the hassle of picking things up piecemeal. It's safe to say that if you love one Smiths tune, you'll want them all; such was the quality of their work. Morrissey's lyrics are poignant, humorous, and wildly adventurous, while Johnny Marr plays guitar with a similar lyricism. No serious collection of late 20th-century music should be without "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out," "These Things Take Time," and another two dozen of the tunes here.