Jacques Brel's witty, incisive lyrics and penetrating compositions practically defined French music for several decades, and this 34-track compilation of his earliest recordings (1953-'56) is an important addition to his canon. These brooding and emotionally intense songs presage introspective singer/songwriters like Joni Mitchell, but were recorded in the de rigueur early-'50s semi-orchestral style, making for a rich juxtaposition of content and form.His vicious,intelligent, dynamic style was an enormous influence on both Scott Walker and David Bowie. 34 TRACKS