Grace Jones has "it." I don't quite know what "it" is exactly, but I'm pretty sure that "it" is what gave her the ability to model, jet set with the Warhol crowd in the '80s, and record songs in so many different genres with so much success. With her chiseled features, pointed stare, and performance- art wardrobe, I'd always assumed she was from the future; turns out she was just ahead of her time.

The Compass Point Sessions feature recordings Jones made in the beginning to late '80s. This two- disc compilation of bizarre material demonstrates Jones' ability to evolve Bowie- style with music trends. Featured on The Compass Point Sessions are recordings of songs written by Jones and her usual collaborators, as well as songs written by Chrissie Hynde, Bryan Ferry, Tom Petty, Smokey Robinson, and David Bowie. But most surprising is her cover of Joy Division's "She's Lost Control." Jones provides her own distinctly reggae spin on the song, perhaps in homage to her Jamaican roots. Shockingly, she retains and conveys the power and strength of Ian Curtis' lyrics.

"Walking in the Rain" is an edgy spoken word monologue, mired in drama and darkness. Her original version of the oft- covered "Pull Up To The Bumper" reached the Top 5 on the U.S. R+B charts in the '80s, largely due to its inviting and provocative style. The fitting finale, though, is "Slave to the Rhythm", a thoroughly modern track produced by master- maestro Trevor Horn (of Art of Noise fame). The number is a direct precursor to the acidjazz stylings of folks like the James Taylor Quartet.

Jones' signature will always be her haunting, velvety and taunting voice. It adds to her persona as a captivating yet intimidating artist, and a scary but attractive individual. This collection demonstrates quite clearly why Grace Jones has earned her place not only in the history of pop culture, but also in the history of rock music.

-Aparna Mohan