What makes The Very Best of Elvis Costello by Elvis Costello notable?

This album solidified Elvis Costello's legacy by presenting a well-curated selection of his hits, many of which had previously charted successfully. It received critical acclaim and helped introduce his music to a wider audience, further cementing his influence on subsequent generations of artists in alternative and rock genres. Released in 1999, 'The Very Best of Elvis Costello' comes at a time when Costello had already established himself as a significant figure in rock music since his debut in 1977. This compilation spans his prolific career, gathering tracks from various phases including his early punk influences and later stylistic explorations, serving as both a retrospective and an introduction for new listeners.