Placebo are one of the few modern bands that can justify a "best of" collection after only four studio albums that span less than a decade - because each release has contained an impressive array of memorable tracks.

From early on, Brian Molko and crew have played oddly-melodic angst-ridden garage rock including fan favourites "36 Degrees", "Teenage Angst", "Nancy Boy", and "Bruise Pristine"; all from the 1996 self-titled album, representing the first four tracks on the 2004 collection - as the entire compilation is presented in chronological order (the way it should be).

Next up is 1998's "Without You I'm Nothing", arguably a very apt title, as the album contains the core tracks that made the world pay attention to this Alternative UK outfit: "Pure Morning" (with the accompanying clip conversation piece; 'Dude, is that a guy or a girl?') "You Don't Care About Us", "Every You Every Me", and "Without You I'm Nothing". Placebo enthusiasts may argue that "Brick Shithouse" or "Scared of Girls" should have made the cut - but keep in mind, this is a singles collection.

Another two years, another four tracks. With notably more Industrial sound (and artwork) from "Black Market Music" Placebo slightly adjust their musical direction without sacrificing the quality that is now expected of them. Singles include "Taste In Men", "Slave To The Wage", "Special K" (a personal favourite), and "Black-Eyed". It's a shame the awesome Justin Warfield collaboration "Spite and Malice" couldn't be here - but I remind myself that we're talking singles, and move on.

2003 brought along "Sleeping With Ghosts", a gem of an album containing, (you guessed it), four singles: "The Bitter End", "This Picture", "Special Needs", and "English Summer Rain" (a new funky mix). These make up tracks thirteen to sixteen on the Placebo treasure chest and the last tracks from a studio album. The second last track is a French-English hybrid of "Protect Me From What I Want" called "Protigi Moi", while the very last two tracks are the brand new (and very short) "I Do", and the cool, sobering "Twenty Years".

All in all, this is a fantastic collection, made essential with the "Remixes" disc included as a bonus in the deluxe edition. Akin to the "Covers" CD in the bonus edition of "Sleeping With Ghosts", the extras are what make it amazing. Whether you own one, all or none of the Placebo albums, this is a must.