L'essentiel (1977-2007)

Not including compilations or live recordings, French singer/songwriter Francis Cabrel has released only 11 studio albums in his three-plus-decade career. This double-disc, 37-track best-of that covers his first three decades is not only representative of his finest work, but an essential showcase for it. The music, from his first hit single "Petite Marie" to the haunting "Je l'Aime à Mourir" and through to his slicker productions in the '80s such as "Said et Mohammed" and the funky blues of "Sarbacane," offers a portrait of the artist as restless and full of experimentation and attitude. The recordings from the '90s and the 21st century, far from reflecting the voice of a more settled songwriter, are more lyrically adventurous and musically precise, as Cabrel pared production back to reflect the organic nature of his writing. Selections such as "La Corrida," "Elle Dort," and "Vingo a Ofrecer Mi Corazón," a duet with Mercedes Sosa, reflect this shift. There are three live cuts included here, as well as a couple of soundtrack selections. In all, Essentiel 1977-2007 is a fitting representation of some of Cabrel's best work as well as an excellent introduction for those just encountering it.