311 - Greatest Hits '93-03 (LP) M

With its signature hybrid sound, 311 spawned scores of imitators and emerged as one of the best-loved and most enduring groups on the rap-metal scene. The band freely combines not only hip-hop and heavy metal, but liberal doses of reggae, funk, dub, Beach Boys-style harmonies, and Phish-like jam-band music. The Nebraska-based quintet steers clear of the sharp edges and angst-laden lyrics of contemporaries Limp Bizkit and Rage Against the Machine in favor of an all-inclusive, celebratory vibe. Starting with the Chili Peppers-esque punk-funk workout "Down" and progressing through the trippy Caribbean-tinged "Amber" to the surf/ska-influenced "Do You Right," GREATEST HITS '93-'03 comes as advertised, collecting all of the band's favorites into one non-stop party package.

• Genre: Pop
• Format: Vinyl