doesn't give fans any bonus material, not even the DVD content so popular with mid-2000s retrospectives. But, while it skimps on the extras, the two-disc, 26-song set is a perfect abstract of the guitarist's work for The 2004 live recording, , only gets one track ( ), but 's five studio albums are all represented well. The set isn't chronological, but by mixing the songs up, heightens the crossroads quality of 's music. In one moment he's a master, the next a interpreter, and he explores Arabic sounds with just as much ease, and while isn't afraid to streamline his influences for the sake of accessibility, he's respectful of them, too. For instance, the side of his sound never overtakes his curiosity and virtuosity as a guitarist and bandleader. Sometimes breezy synthesizers, and occasionally a percussion instrument, feel "painted in" for effect rather than meaning, but that's rare, and as he's proven over the years with , offers fusion, subtlety, and most of all evocative playing. Collection highlights include 's title track, (featuring from ), 's propulsive the organic/digital play of and the memorable touches in ~ Johnny Loftus