Known mainly for their cult disco hits from the 70s such as "Daddy Cool," "Rasputin" and "Brown Girl in the Ring," which made them stars on the European music scene, Boney M. is trying to cash in on the never-dying 70's retro revival by issuing album compilations.

Following the success of "Boney M. Gold" in 1993, which contains the group's disco hits, Boney M. producer and writer Frank Fabian have now issued "Boney M. Their Most Beautiful Ballads."

Despite lead-singer Liz Mitchell's mellifluous voice, the lack of instrumental, volume or tempo variation from song to song results in an overall bland album. Many tracks seem to be a combination of Bavarian folk and Gospel, with a number of songs having clear religious themes.

Among the 21 tracks there are a few gems, such as "I See a Boat on the River" and "Rivers of Babylon," that make the album worth purchasing. Neil Young's big hit "Heart of Gold" and the traditional Christmas song "The Little Drummer Boy" are nicely covered, giving the album a bit of variation.

Photos of Bobby Farrell, Boney M.'s most charismatic personality, and also of the group decked out in the worst of 70s fashion — from dapper pink suits to futuristic space outfits to West Indian capped fashions – alone make the album a must-buy for retro fans.