| Although this set has a couple of Judy Collins' best-known recordings like "Send in the Clowns" and "Both Sides Now," it is difficult to say that it is truly essential, as the title states. That's not to say that it's a bad collection, because as a sampler of Collins' best tendencies, it actually works pretty well. It also includes songs that she frequently features in concert ("The Blizzard," "Amazing Grace"), and since this was originally released by Wildflower Records, Collins' own label (she started it in 1999), perhaps it was intended to be a kind of concert memento. At any rate, if it isn't exactly essential, it makes a decent and interesting introduction to this dignified and graceful singer.
 CONDITION: NEW
 
 TRACK LISTING
 
 1	Morning Has Broken
 2	The Rose
 3	Send In The Clowns
 4	The Blizzard
 5	Wings Of Angels
 6	One Day At A Time
 7	Since You've Asked
 8	Bright Morning Stars
 9	Both Sides Now
 10	Born To The Breed
 11	Song For Bernadette
 12	Amazing Grace
 13	Bridge Over Troubled Water
 
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