Loving this thread - it's like a treasure chest of great comps. I’m totally with most of you: I’ve always loved compilations, and a lot of the ones mentioned here (KBD, BFTG, Nuggets, etc.) are essential listening. All that garage/punk/raw energy stuff shaped a big part of my taste too.
That said, what really gets me going are the comps rooted in early r’n’r, surf, rhythm & blues, funk, and soul. Stuff that’s sweaty, wild, and danceable - you know? I’m talking about comps like Sin Alley, Savage Kick, Las Vegas Grind, Jerk Boom Bam!, Twistin' Rumble, Shakin' Fit / Whip It On 'Em / Show Me What You Got!, Jerk! Shake! And Vibrate!, Jungle Exotica...
To me, these comps are like time machines - full of raw grooves, sleaze, and forgotten bangers. They go beyond just historical value - they move you, literally.