Leonard Cohen - Essential Leonard Cohen

This two-disc retrospective traces the Canadian bard's musical maturity from poet and novelist who sang a little to multidimensional artist whose oracular vocals and increasingly rich arrangements are every bit as compelling as his verse. Even when Cohen came to prominence through the 1960s songcraft of "Suzanne" and "Bird on a Wire," the "folksinger" tag never really fit. Later highlights ranging from the deadpan drollery of "Tower of Song" and "Everybody Knows" to the apocalyptic anthemry of "First We Take Manhattan" and "Democracy" suggest that other labels might be more appropriate: cabaret surrealist, spiritual gadfly, sensual prophet, agent provocateur. Cohen chose the selections, drawing more than half of the 31 tracks from three landmark albums--his 1967 debut Songs of Leonard Cohen, 1988's I'm Your Man, and 1992's The Future--along with four from 2001's Ten New Songs. The collection justifies its title as deep as it goes, though it's a shame that Cohen's commercial profile couldn't justify the more elaborate box set his artistry warrants (one that would at least include lyrics and musician credits). Those who sample the consistently inspired music here might come to the conclusion that everything Cohen records is essential. --Don McLeese Amazon.com

Musicians viewpoint

Leonard Cohen isn't just great, he's a genius. He'll take you on a musical journey that explores the depths of emotions. His music
makes him one of today's most important composers. If you have a taste
for the best,you need to hear and enjoy Leonard Cohen. August 4, 2008

Personal Opinion

My wife had heard one of his songs so I bought it to be nice. I was definitely impressed with the sound and his voice. Thank you for having it available to purchase. July 22, 2008

Essential Leonard Cohen - Essentially

As the title reads, this is Leonard Cohen's Essential collection, and by no means definitive. If you have to purchase one CD of Leonard's music, this would be the one get. Classic favorites include Suzanne, So Long Marianne, Hallelujah, Tower Song. All the songs are the album versions and do not necessarily represent the best version but they will certainly keep you listening for a long time. July 8, 2008

Leonard is the man

I downloaded this album from Amazon after seeing the Leonard Cohen documentary ("I'm Your Man") on the Sundance Channel. You just forget how many great songs Leonard wrote until you hear a compilation like this. I had also recently downloaded the 25th anniversary edition of Jennifer Warne's "Famous Blue Raincoat" album (another collection of Cohen songs) and the two have quickly become members of my top ten albums on my iPod... June 28, 2008

cohen for president

have been listening to cohen for years.need someone with thought &perspective in W House. If it be your will is my favorite. May 24, 2008

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