I bought this collection having only heard a bit of PCO - risky! But I'm delighted.The music has a lot of energy, it's fresh and often downright catchy! But at the same time - and this may seem a contradiction - it feels like it's from an era that has passed away. I personally find it very touching, and I can't quite make sense of it.
There is a written history of the orchestra included, which helped me appreciate the music. It's very attractive and interesting. Unfortunately, it isn't bound very well and it started to fall apart on me quite soon. Out came the sticky tape. This is why I haven't given the collection the full 5 stars.
Still, there isn't a bad CD, nor a track that I want to skip, in this entire collection. You'll find yourself not just listening to the Penguin Cafe, but visiting it from your armchair!
