Best Ofs

Duncan Sheik

Brighter/Later: A Duncan Sheik Anthology (Atlantic/Rhino)

Anyone who's paid careful attention to Duncan Sheik's music – and his cult following is rather modest – has probably noticed how carefully considered every element of his music is. The L.A.-based singer-songwriter knows precisely how to use his voice and his guitar to sound a lament, voice a protest, express love, tell a joke. Such a thoughtful artist deserves an equally thoughtful compilation, and Brighter/Later is equal to the challenge. Curated by Sheik and Rhino's Jeff White, this 2-CD, 29-song collection's concept is deceptively simple: The first disc is the peppy stuff, and the second spreads more introspective. While the fairly self-explanatory "On a High" has no obvious place alongside the dusky requiem of "A Body Goes Down," if you listen closely, you'll hear how Sheik manipulates the pop conceit on the Brighter side in order to level a critique at the very culture within which he creates his art. Similarly, the Later material is more than just the backdrop for an evening cuddle and glass of wine; it's so emotionally raw and intimate, you almost have to turn away. Rather than simply a compilation of "hits" and overlooked worthies, Brighter/Later is a comprehensive representation of an uncompromising artist who consistently dares his listeners to experience every emotion to its fullest.