The Rolling Stones have written more classic songs than ten decent bands. Along the way, they have probably produced more greatest hits records than anybody, many of which are beyond redundant, and often filled with boring filler to make them seem different than the last. This collection is the best they ever released, accurately cataloguing the best songs they produced from their most productive period. As much as I prefer original albums to compilations, this one is great to have.
This CD has the best of the Stones - the "old" songs, before "new" stuff like "Emotional Rescue". Listen to each of these songs again sometime to be reminded what a great band this is (I rediscovered "Gimme Shelter"), and don't be fooled by other "best of" CDs...
If you will buy one Stones album, or are just getting started, this is the one to get--the quintessential collection of the best of the best band ever!