Traffic—Smiling Phases 2 X CD Compilation  1991 Island Records

    This band had two phases (hence the title).  First, with Dave Mason, was mostly pop psychedelia and very diverse.  This phase is cosmic to say the least, and if you can dig it, you’ll find that heaven, indeed, is in your mind.  It is truly acid rock, where everyone is feelin’ alright.  As David Mason drifted into a more pop vein and he left the band, and the rest of the group became more open to influences more in the area of Eric Clapton and Pete Townshend.  Soon they developed into one of the greatest live shows in rock history,  This is a solidly sequenced and balanced selection from throughout their storied history.  Highlights:  Paper Sun, Dear Mr. Fantasy, Medicated Goo, Empty Pages, Rock and Roll Stew.   20 tracks in all, and each is a classic.