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The 20-song set includes the legendary Americana band's best-known tracks from their first four albums, alongside deep cuts and two songs originally featured on the soundtrack to director Walter Hill's 1984 cult film, Streets of Fire. From the outset of their career, with such songs as Marie Marie to Border Radio, it was clear Grammyr winner Dave Alvin would be a songwriter to be reckoned with, and brother Phil brings an unparalleled knowledge of American roots music, giving the band a rock-solid musical foundation. Mandatory's track list was chosen with the full cooperation of the band and will be available on CD and digital. Renowned music journalist Chris Morris has contributed new liner notes, calling Mandatory a definitive sampling of The Blasters' recorded work from their 1980-1985 heyday.