About this album
Where they were
By the time 'Modern Classics: The Greatest Hits' was released in December 1998, Paul Weller had transitioned from his early days with The Jam and Style Council to a successful solo artist. This compilation came after his critically acclaimed album 'Heavy Soul' (1997) and served as a retrospective of his work, showcasing his evolution as a musician over nearly two decades.
Why it matters
This album solidified Weller's status as a prominent figure in British music, reaching number 1 on the UK Albums Chart. It also received widespread acclaim, praised for its cohesive selection of tracks that highlighted his best work, further influencing the Britpop movement that had been thriving during the late '90s.
Essential tracks
- "Wild Wood" — 'Wild Wood' is a quintessential Weller track, blending introspective lyrics with lush instrumentation, capturing a sense of nostalgia and connection to nature.
- "You Do Something to Me" — This track stands out for its heartfelt lyrics and infectious melody, showcasing Weller’s ability to craft timeless love songs.
- "The Changingman" — 'The Changingman' highlights Weller's lyrical depth and musical versatility, embodying themes of transformation and self-discovery.
Release Date
December 15, 1998
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Out of the Sinking 3:51
- 2 Peacock Suit 3:07
- 3 Sunflower 4:10
- 4 The Weaver 3:44
- 5 Wild Wood 3:23
- 6 Above the Clouds 3:51
- 7 Uh-Huh Oh-Yeh 3:19
- 8 Brushed 3:32
- 9 The Changingman 3:32
- 10 Friday Street 2:20
- 11 You Do Something to Me 3:38
- 12 Brand New Start 4:07
- 13 Hung Up 2:41
- 14 Mermaids 3:04
- 15 Broken Stones 3:22
- 16 Into Tomorrow 3:13
