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I was 16 years old when I first heard Michael Hedges. Over a decade later, I still marvel at his technical wizardry, his magical writing, his resonant singing. I was lucky enough to see him twice in concert and those were easily the most incredible shows I'll ever see. To see Michael live was to spend the fastest, funniest, most awesome 2 1/2 hours you could ever want in a concert -- and you walked away so energized, wanting more, waiting anxiously for his next show. His performances were addictive, in a wonderfuly positive way.

Michael was the most unique and refreshing musician of the late 20th century, and if you only want to experience a taste of his artistry, this CD will give you a delicious taste indeed. What this man did with a guitar defies description -- when you listen to the solo work like "Silent Anticipations" or "Ritual Dance," remember that this is JUST ONE PERSON PLAYING. It may sound like a trio of guitars but it's just Michael, no overdubs, no tricks. He was truly a maestro whose work will live on thru simple collections like this and thru the hearts of his heartbroken fans. I hope you choose to buy this CD and let yourself appreciate the revolutionary and expressive creations in it.

Michael, we miss you...

From the jazz stylings of the opening cut "The Funky Avocado" from his 1981 debut to the fragile beauty of "Java Man" taken from 1997's work-in-progress album Torched, Hedges displayed a unique style and amazing technique. Now, nearly three years after his untimely death, Windham Hill has put together this generous 17-track, hour-long collection which touches on each of his albums.

While it might be safely argued that his guitar playing was more expressive than his voice, his vocals were always engaging, whether on tracks like the gentle "The Streamlined Man" or his interpretation of Dylan's "All Along the Watchtower." In all, five vocals are included.

But it was Hedge's guitar playing that earned him his reputation and this collection does not disappoint. Listen to the acoustic beauty of "Aerial Boundaries" or "Rickover's Dream" and then realize that this was recorded live with no overdubs and it's astonishing to hear his technique.

This is not intended for the long-time fan who will already have all of his previous releases. This is a chronological representation of Hedges' career for the uninitiated who are provided an adequate overview if not definitive glimpse at one of the music world's most gifted guitar players. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

This music here is not justified by words, poetry, anything but your undivided attention. Hedges's music all has a quality of perfection, despite the harshness, anger, and frustration that seems evident in some pieces. However, there are also songs here that will play on your heart strings with their pristine melodies and enchanting textures. That is one way to summon up the music of Michael Hedges: he could be beautiful, and he could be dark and brooding. Yet he was otherworldly, and there is nothing else in music that can compare to his uniqueness. As a sort of taste test of sorts, the music present in this 'best of' collection will present to the casual listener a doorway to the wonderful sounds that Hedges made with usually one guitar, and an honest heart. This is music that does not hide behind fear or doubting: this is music that is naked to the world and is not afraid to be real. And this is why I love it! From the deep grooves in "the funky avocado", from the reminescing beauty of "woman of the world", from the intensity of "all along the watchtower" to the calm oneness of "java man", this music is a fitting tribute to a man that graced the world with his art. And while this music never made it out to the mainstream, it is here, forever, for all of those old and new to discover, and to treasure. It is beautiful.

I've been a fan of Michael Hedges since the late '80s and was lucky to see him play live twice. This is an excellent collection containing most of my favorites - except one: "Ready or Not" from "Double Planet". It's the song that introduced me to his music, actually getting some airplay on the old WHFS in Annapolis, MD. It's one of his more "Poppy" accessible pieces, but has such incredible hooks, you'd think he invented the concept. So if you want to REALLY own the best of Michael's music, buy this record AND "Live on the Double Planet"! Or better yet, get them all - there's too many small gems that deserve to be heard, that could never fit on a single record.

For anyone who isn't aware of the technical ability and genius musical craft that is Michael Hedges, this is a great starter CD for new or curious fans.

Considered a genius, MH did much to advance the art of open tunings and two handed tapping/percussive techniques. Additionally, with the likes of George Winston and Will Ackerman, was one of the pioneer artists for WindHam Hill Records and new age as genre'.

I highly reccomend anything that is solo acoustic guitar. You absolutely can not lose. This is a much needed album. Finaly note, Hedges died of tragic auto accident a few short years ago, which makes this compilation that much more fitting.

I think this CD is boring and all of the songs lack luster. The music needs background and more zeal. I wished that I had not purchased the CD(2) and I even sent it as a gift!