“Bigger Better Power Ballads II”

“Bigger Better Power Ballads II” - Various

by lkatulka on January 1st, 2008

Bigger Better Power Ballads II cover I’ve just arrived home after five days road-tripping. As every seasoned traveller knows, you need two things for a good road trip: good company and good music. My husband took care of the former, but after about 15 hours in the car we started to tire of the CDs I’d packed. Thankfully while buying petrol in Bairnsdale I stumbled across EMI Australia’s massive compilation album, Bigger Better Power Ballads II.

I’ve heard a few compilation albums in my time, but none have impressed me as much as this one. Power ballad veterans like Journey and Queen sit comfortably alongside newer artists like Nickelback and The Fray. Power ballad enthusiasts have long overlooked the contributions of women, but this compilation doesn’t forget female masters like Pat Benatar and Tina Turner. But unfortunately the Australian content is a little light on, with only Moving Pictures and Youth Group flying the flag.

You’ve heard all the songs before, which makes it excellent for a long car trip. My husband I loved singing along to Toto’s “Africa” and Mr. Big’s “Be With You.” At three discs it’s also the perfect length, because once you reach the end of the third disc you’re ready to hear disc one again.

If you’re road tripping these summer holidays, and even if you’re not, Bigger Better Power Ballads II is a lot of fun. It’s so good it’s inspired me to track down the original.

Image source: Chaos