Diamond Rio had a successful 16-year (1990-2006) stint on the Arista Nashville label. Perhaps most impressively, this six-member band (Marty Roe, Gene Johnson, Jimmy Olander, Brian Prout, Dan Truman, and Dana Williams) maintained the same lineup throughout this run. Diamond Rio emerged from its bluegrass roots to the elite level in country by combining strong musicianship with tight harmonies. They also possess, in lead singer Marty Roe, a distinctive tenor of exceptional power and conviction.

The group put out two Greatest Hits retrospectives over the years, but this collection is the best cd of the group's highlights, including three top ten hits ("Nowhere Bound," "Oh Me, Oh My, Sweet Baby," "This Romeo Ain't Got Julie Yet") left off those prior sets. The tunes found here showcase the group's astounding diversity, with upbeat honkytonkers such as "Meet In The Middle" and "Mirror Mirror," heart tugging ballads like "In A Week Or Two" and "You're Gone," smile enducers "Norma Jean Riley," and "Unbelievable," plus gospel-fused spinetinglers "One More Day" and "I Believe." Collectively, they provide a rural rollercoaster of emotions.

16 Biggest Hits is a great introduction to the musical brilliance of Diamond Rio. Hopefully, they will continue to make quality music for Word Records, their new label as of August 30.