[2] Recorded in his adopted hometown of Austin, Texas, with his "Bump Band," then consisting of vocalist and keyboardist McLagan, drummer Don Harvey, bassist Sarah Brown, and guitarists Gurf Morlix and "Scrappy" Jud Newcomb, it featured twelve songs by McLagan, two previously released on his 1985 extended play, Last Chance to Dance.

The album was financed by his former bandmate, Ron Wood, who is featured on three tracks, including "She Stole It!"

(the cautionary tale of a man, his woman and his record collection) and the ode to their departed Face Ronnie Lane, "Hello Old Friend."

[6] The Austin Chronicle called Best of British "an album of infectious yet personal tunes, permeated with the deep reflection of a man who's lived long enough to see a lot of life and death.

"[4] AllMusic wrote that "Best of British is an enjoyable album that sounds like what it is -- a busman's holiday by a talented sideman.