While the mesmerizing sound John Fahey conjures here from his steel strings meets this Maryland guitarist's typically high standards, the album title misleadingly suggests a best-of collection. It's actually a CD two-fer. The Yellow Princess, a 1969 album in its entirety, is followed by 1967 release Requia, missing only the four-part "Requiem for Molly." Essential John Fahey is not essential, but because it features this extraordinary musician solo and with a band -- members of Spirit and Jo Jo Gunne -- it could be a good place to start. ~ Mark Allan, All Music Guide