The Essential Bob Dylan by Bob Dylan (CD, Oct-2000, 2 Discs, Legacy Recordings)

Of course, given Dylan's incredible wealth of material, this collection could easily have been a 4 disc set. Longtime Dylanistas such as myself may lament the exclusion of such perfect songs like 'The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll' (which is perhaps the most affecting protest song ever) and 'Every Grain of Sand,' but for the beginner this is an excellent and accessible introduction to America's greatest living poet. Without being overwhelming (as Dylan often is), these 30 tracks showcase his stellar songwriting skills, unique vocal stylings, and yes, his genius.

The tracks run chronologically, and include his best known songs -- i.e., 'Blowin' in the Wind' and 'Mr. Tambourine Man' -- but there are some lesser known gems like 1965's scathing 'Positively 4th Street' and 1983?s 'Jokerman.' Too bad there aren?t any liner notes to speak of, though. Suggestion for newbies: Buy this one, take it all in, then explore his great studio albums, such as 'Blonde on Blonde' and 'Blood on the Tracks.'