As a compilation of soothing classical pieces, EMI's
Best Relaxing Classics 100 should work as a satisfactory chill-out collection, since it is full of slow, soft, and atmospheric music that most people will find very tranquil and pleasant. Still, close listening reveals a striking variety of genres, instrumentation, and performance styles; and, while most tracks are indeed peaceful, there are enough Classical and Romantic pieces that rely on sudden contrasts of mood, tone, and volume.