Deadly Sting was expanded to its present double-disc incarnation simply because it was impossible to fit all of Scorpions' classic material on one CD. This collection starts with the 1979 album Lovedrive, which transformed Scorpions from a tight rock band to heavy metal gods. The group’s career is divided by two hits: 1984’s punchy “Rock You Like a Hurricane” and 1990’s operatic “Wind of Change,” two signature songs that will never die. The band’s pre-“Hurricane” output shows Scorpions at their leanest and hungriest. Whether you prefer '70s hard rock or '80s metal, you won't find fault with “Lovedrive,” “The Zoo," and “Can’t Live Without You.” Between “Hurricane” and “Wind,” the band played up its role as an elder statesman of hair metal, dispensing solemnity and passion while younger bands were interested only in partying. “Wind of Change” was a true classic, but “Alien Nation” and “Woman” reaffirmed Scorpions' virility, even if the general public had moved on. Of the two unreleased songs at the collection's end, “Over the Top” is essential for the way its bridges '80s songwriting chops with the production style of the '90s.