Googoosh

If one thing will shock you about this exhaustive compilation of hit songs from Iran's formerly muzzled diva, it's how familiar and contemporary its feels ... in a retro way. Shirley Bassey would be right at home in "Man-O-To" or any number of these wonderful songs. High on drama but never short on the melodies, Googoosh's arrangers took their cues from jazz and film music, and that east/west chemistry sizzles in track after cool, jazzy track. This is one international release that won't feel like a one-time adventure: You'll return to these songs again and again, regardless of whether you speak Farsi.