Paul Anka

BMG International's Best Selection features 11 tracks apiece from two of the preeminent teen idols of the '50s and early '60s, Paul Anka and Neil Sedaka. Despite the fact that these combined greatest-hits collections are usually small and don't feature many essential tracks from either of the artists, this compilation is actually pretty good, offering an ample amount of essential songs from both Anka and Sedaka. "Diana," "Lonely Boy," "Puppy Love," and "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" represent Anka's career highlights, while "Calendar Girl," "Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen," "Oh! Carol," and "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" are some of the definitive Sedaka singles included here. Either half of the collection on its own would make a respectable, if slightly small, greatest-hits album for either artist; if you like both Sedaka and Anka's songs, then Best Selection is a fun and surprisingly consistent combination of their work. ~ Heather Phares, All Music Guide