Lengthier variations on this album were released overseas a couple of months before the American version; the Swedish edition, Love Peas: Ballad Hits, contained 19 tracks to this one's 15. But Roxette is a much bigger act in Sweden, and in Europe generally, than in America, where most of those who remember the duo will wonder how they could fill an album of only their ballad hits. Indeed, as far as the U.S. is concerned, there are only five singles-chart entries here, and only three real hits: {&"...   [ read more ]

CD $16.13

Mostly recorded live, much of Tourism, a worthy compilation of hits, misses, and new cuts, spotlights how strong an act they are even without the benefit of studio production. From the lead song, "How Do You Do!," a perfectly presented pop ditty, bright and sunny as summer, to a rejuvenated version of one of their biggest hits, "It Must Have Been Love" -- you have to hear 45,000 Chileans singing back-up to truly appreciate what was one of their least affecting ballads -- you come to appreciate wha...   [ read more ]

CD $11.38

If proof were needed that Roxette are the new Abba, the lack of critical respect should be enough. Like Abba, Roxette is a masterful pop band (with just the right amount of kitsch in its armor) that routinely gets slagged off for lacking substance, whatever that may be. Room Service showcases a band at the top of its form with its feet firm on the pedal: this album is a case study in songcraft and pop smarts. With its na-na-na choruses and sparkly guitars, Room Service is also trade...   [ read more ]

CD $44.63