Meet the Eels - Essential Eels, Vol. 1 (1996-2006) [Audio Version]

This 24-track “Greatest Hits” collection from cult artist Mark Oliver Everett (aka ‘E’), who releases his albums as Eels, works as the straightforward companion piece to the 50-track collection of rarities (Useless Trinkets) that’s been used to further sum up this artistically fertile decade of work. Tracks from each of Eels’ releases are included, running from the 1996 debut Beautiful Freak through the 2006 live album, With Strings: Live at Town Hall. The previously unreleased remix of “Climbing to the Moon” from Jon Brion and a cover of Missy Elliot’s “Get Ur Freak On” should entice completists. But this is essentially a well-researched career overview, providing the full spectrum of E’s prodigious talents. “I’m Going to Stop Pretending That I Didn’t Break Your Heart” is perfect crestfallen pop, meticulously produced without losing its emotive impulse, “Susan’s House” uses a ‘70s funk groove and keyboard with a newscaster’s reportage to nail its sense of loss, while a track such as “Souljacker Part 1” cranks up the amps, and “Saturday Morning” comes barreling out of the garage with its guitars and cheesy organ beautifully distorted. Everett’s one studio rat who can play the boisterous rock performer and the quiet kid in the corner with equal parts energy and finesse.