On their first-ever compilation album in their over 20-year career, English pop-punk stable Busted re-explore decades-old material and give it a refreshing revamp of life.

The album features an impressive 25 tracks, comprised of re-records of songs from the band’s 2002’s self-titled album and 2003’s ‘A Present For Everyone’, a selection of the band’s Greatest Hits featuring inputs from iconic world-renowned artists, a brand new Song entitled ‘Good One’ and even a cover of infectious 90’s hit ‘MMMBop’ with Hanson.

What results from this is an outrageously fun ride through memory lane that both delights in its nostalgia and surprises in its unpredictability compared to the often dull and unimaginative structure of most artists’ greatest hits compilations.

The album is kicked off with a reimagining of Busted most popular and singable song ‘Year 3000’, now termed ‘Year 3000 2.0’, and featuring American pop-rock trio The Jonas Brothers.

Beginning in signature energetic Busted style along with some 80’s synths, the revamped ‘Year 3000 2.0′ bursts with life just as it did back in 2002. The Jonas Brothers’ smooth melodic vocals are interwoven seamlessly with the still-youthful voices of the original Busted trio of Matt Willis, Charlie Simpson, and James Bourne. The guest edition here was a great choice, with the song not differing massively from the original release, still containing its memorably upbeat tempo and light-hearted tone that featured heavily in the early Busted releases.

3AM 2.0′ however is a song subjected to shifts in both tone and vocalisation. Involving 2012 X Factor champion and pop powerhouse James Arthur, the song immediately delves into new territory with the help of Arthur’s soulfully distinctive croon over an emotional acoustically lead instrumental. ‘3AM 2.0’ really feels like the sound for the new era of Busted; a more mature modern sound still tinged with the edginess and nostalgia that long-time fans remember.

Another track that must be discussed is ‘Meet You There 2.0’ featuring Welsh pop-punk band Neck Deep. Originally a lesser-known B-side off 2003’s ‘A Present For Everyone’ album, the song was an acoustic guitar-based sentimental ballad sung predominantly by vocalist James Bourne. The updated version serves almost as the antithesis of this, employing prominent bass and a rhythmical chorus that sounds boldly hopeful in tone despite its lyrics of heartbreak and regret. It’s a refreshing take on one of Busted’s most underrated hits, updated in an alternate genre and for a new generation of fans.

Track 10 is perhaps the album’s most surprising addition, with Busted uniting with pop-rock outfit Hanson to reimagine their 90’s sensation ‘MMMBop’. The track is both bright and energetic and shines with the welcome addition of the Busted members’ vocals; creating a wonderful chorus harmony that begs listeners to sing along with its infectious melody. Despite this not being an original Busted song, it does not sound out of place amidst the album’s eclectic collection of collaborations; all the tracks brimming with energy and nostalgia for the younger years of bands that are now considered to have reached iconic status in the pop-punk genre.

The 12th track, ‘Thunderbirds Are Go 2.0’ featuring McFly, will no doubt be a delight to fans of the brief but bold career of McBusted, a combination of English pop-rock band McFly and Busted. First released on the 2004 single ‘Thunderbirds Are Go/3AM’, the song gained fame for its appearance in the 2004 film ‘Thunderbirds’ starring Ben Kingsley. Now almost 20 years later, their song returns in thunderous fashion. Filled with satisfying vocal harmonies and a thrilling guitar solo, fans will be pleased to hear that ‘Thunderbirds Are Go 2.0’ greatly respects the original single version.

Within all this welcome nostalgia, comes the one new track ‘Good One’. With a heartfelt sentiment of cherishing the good moments in life, the boys’ collection of smooth croons, pleasing vibrato, and subtle adlibs make for perfect feel-good listening. ‘Good One’ serves as evidence of how far the band has come from their early days of teenaged boldness to their current maturity as seasoned pop musicians.

Score/Excellent: This is not just any greatest hits album, it’s a white-knuckle ride through the career of one of the UK’s most beloved boy bands. From their whirlwind beginnings to their current experimentation with the heart of Busted’s ‘sound’ through collaborations with fellow industry greats, there is so much that makes this album enjoyable. Whether or not you’re a long-time Busted fan, the energy still palpable in their music makes for undeniable entertainment.

[We rank albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent]

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