Neil Diamond, Diamonds (1974)
Every record collection should have at least one Neil Diamond hits compilation – mine has at least two. This being the latest – and though this sounds like I’m trying to run, I didn’t choose this, I inherited it. I would say I probably didn’t need this double comp, but then I hear Neil doing Mr. Bojangles and Neil doing He Ain’t Heavy…He’s My Brother and I was very glad to (also) have this hits compilation in my collection. Anyone tells you they don’t like Neil Diamond at all – you have a reason to be suspicious of them. There might not in fact be any joy in their life. My dad once put the thought in my head that Neil Diamond sounds a bit like Al Bundy – their speaking voices, particularly. That thought is still with me. I can’t shake it. Nor would I ever want to.

Sample Track: Cracklin’ Rosie

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