Alanis Morissette is arguably one of the most iconic artists of the 90’s. Her eschewing of what a female artist was supposed to be about helped pave the way for other female artists of the era. Alanis Morissette’s The Collection stands as a comprehensive showcase of the artist’s profound lyrical prowess and her ability to encapsulate raw emotions within a diverse musical spectrum. Released as a compilation album in 2005, it brilliantly captures the essence of Morissette’s career up until that point, offering a well-rounded overview of her evolution as a musician. Previously only available on CD, this greatest hits collection is seeing its vinyl debut from Rhino Records.
The album kicks off with her hit, “Thank U,” from the ’98’s Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie which beautifully sets the tone for what’s to come. Morissette’s introspective songwriting shines throughout the album, making every track feel like a glimpse into her personal journey. The emotional intensity of songs like “You Learn,” “Ironic,” “You Oughta Know” and “Head Over Feet” from her iconic album Jagged Little Pill is balanced by the reflective and contemplative pieces like “Unsent.” What makes The Collection truly noteworthy is its ability to capture Morissette’s artistic evolution. As the album progresses, listeners are treated to a sonic chronicle of her growth. The acoustic renditions of tracks like “Princes Familiar” from her MTV Unplugged session in 1999 reveal a more stripped-down and vulnerable side of her music, showcasing her adaptability and the timelessness of her compositions. The inclusion of two covers, Seal’s “Crazy” and Cole Porter’s “Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love)” from the De-Lovely soundtracks adds a fresh layer to the album. “Crazy” retains Morissette’s signature angst-ridden sound, while “Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love)” offers a more mature perspective on introspection. Other non-album tracks included are “Sister Blister” from the Feast of Scraps 2002 tour compilation and “Still” from the Dogma soundtrack in which Morissette played God. The standout inclusion on The Collection is the iconic song “Uninvited” from the City of Angels soundtrack.
The Collection by Alanis Morissette is a testament to the singer-songwriter’s lyrical brilliance and emotional authenticity. While Morissette is still releasing new music, The Collection encapsulates her career’s first chapter, offering a well-rounded experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. With its introspective themes and captivating melodies, this album serves as a solid representation of Morissette’s musical journey up until 2005.
