No Doubt - Everything in Time (B-sides, Remixes, Rarities) (2004)

Previously only available as part of BOOM BOX, No Doubt's EVERYTHING IN TIME is exactly what its subtitle (B-SIDES, RARITIES, REMIXES) suggests--a collection of tracks that either didn't make it onto the band's official albums or were created for non-album purposes (i.e. movie soundtracks, etc.). Luckily, none of these recordings are throwaways; all are up to the standards of No Doubt's major releases and powerfully showcase the Southern California ensemble's trademark mix of ska, punk, and New Wave sounds.

Several songs reveal the quartet's more experimental side. "Cellophane Boy" recalls the Beatles' SGT. PEPPER'S-era work, employing psychedelic Mellotron swirls and bouncy, McCartney-esque bass work from Tony Kanal. "New Friend" is one of the most hip-hop-oriented tracks the group has done, and wouldn't sound out of place on a Beyonce or Usher album. "You're So Foxy," on the other hand, brings Gwen Stefani's Debbie Harry influence to the fore, its propulsive disco rhythms strongly recalling Blondie's classic "Heart of Glass." Topping off the rarities section is the grand, mid-tempo Elvis Costello tune "I Throw My Toys Around" (from THE RUGRATS MOVIE), which features an appearance by the distinguished author himself.