Icehouse - White Heat: 30 Hits (3LP)

"Icehouse - White Heat: 30 Hits" is a comprehensive compilation album by the Australian rock band Icehouse, released on August 26, 2011. This album serves as a celebration of the band's illustrious career, spanning over three decades of music-making. It features 30 tracks that encapsulate the essence of Icehouse's contribution to the rock and new wave genres, showcasing their evolution and the timeless quality of their music.

Icehouse, originally formed in 1977 under the name Flowers, is led by the charismatic frontman Iva Davies. The band quickly rose to prominence in the early 1980s, becoming one of Australia's most successful musical exports. "White Heat: 30 Hits" is a testament to their enduring popularity and the impact they've had on both the Australian and international music scenes.

The album opens with "Can't Help Myself," a track that captures the raw energy and new wave influences that characterized Icehouse's early sound. This song, along with others like "We Can Get Together" and "Walls," highlights the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, a hallmark of their early work.

One of the standout tracks on the compilation is "Great Southern Land," a song that has become an unofficial anthem of Australia. Released in 1982, it combines atmospheric synths with evocative lyrics that paint a vivid picture of the Australian landscape. The song's enduring appeal is a testament to its powerful imagery and the emotional resonance it holds for many listeners.

The album also features "Hey Little Girl," a track that showcases Icehouse's shift towards a more polished, synth-driven sound. This song, along with "Street Café" and "No Promises," exemplifies the band's ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the 1980s while maintaining their distinctive style.

"Electric Blue," co-written by Iva Davies and John Oates of Hall & Oates, is another highlight of the compilation. This track became one of Icehouse's biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in Australia and making a significant impact internationally. Its infectious chorus and upbeat tempo make it a quintessential 80s pop-rock anthem.

The second disc of the album delves into some of Icehouse's later work, including tracks like "Crazy" and "My Obsession." These songs reflect the band's continued evolution, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and electronic music. Despite the changes in musical direction, Icehouse's core sound remains intact, characterized by Davies' distinctive vocals and the band's knack for crafting memorable hooks.

"White Heat: 30 Hits" also includes a DVD featuring all 32 of the band's music videos, providing a visual journey through Icehouse's career. This addition offers fans a chance to experience the band's artistic vision and the evolution of their visual style over the years.

Overall, "White Heat: 30 Hits" is a fitting tribute to Icehouse's legacy. It captures the essence of a band that has consistently pushed the boundaries of rock and new wave music, delivering hits that have stood the test of time. For longtime fans, the album is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, while newcomers will find it an excellent introduction to the band's extensive catalog.

The compilation not only highlights Icehouse's musical achievements but also underscores their influence on the Australian music scene and beyond. With its carefully curated selection of tracks, "White Heat: 30 Hits" reaffirms Icehouse's status as one of Australia's most iconic and enduring bands.