LENNON died 25 years ago this December - and what better way to celebrate his legend than to release a comprehensive selection of songs to commemorate his musical genius?

Well, there would be no argument if this wasn't at least the 15th Lennon album to be produced since the late 80s.

The question must be asked whether relentlessly churning out these albums, many of which are similar "best of" compilations, is for no other reason than to cash in on his legendary status.

Of course this album is magnificent, and of course people are going to buy it. Which is precisely the point of the exercise.

The cover is spot on by calling it the definitive collection - 38 classic tracks from Imagine, Jealous Guy, Woman and (Just Like) Starting Over, Nobody Loves You (When You're Down And Out), Instant Karma! (We All Shine On) and Give Peace a Chance.

Which is sorry news for those who forked out for the 1997 album Legend, which also dubbed as a "best of" but featured only half of what is on this latest release.

Not to mention anyone who bought Acoustic last year, which also contained many of the songs on this album, such as Love, God, Cold Turkey, Watching The Wheels and Real Love.

Or those who splashed out on the 4CD Anthology in 1998...need I go on?

MC