Album: The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective

Overview
"The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective" is a compilation album by American singer-songwriter Ben Folds, launched on October 11, 2011. The album is an overview of Folds' 20-year career in the music industry, featuring tunes from his solo works, collaborations with numerous artists, and his time as the frontman of the alternative rock band, Ben Folds Five. The album's title comes from a lyric in the tune "Best Imitation of Myself", a track from Ben Folds Five's 1995 launching album. The retrospective consists of three discs, each with its own theme: 'greatest hits', 'live', and 'rarities'.

Disc One: The Greatest Hits
The first disc functions 18 of Ben Folds' most popular and effective songs that span across his profession. The disc contains tracks from his time as a member of Ben Folds Five along with his solo work. Some highlights from this disc include "Brick", "Rockin' the Suburbs", "Landed", and "You Don't Know Me". In addition, this disc features his collaboration with Regina Spektor on "You Don't Know Me" and a formerly unreleased track, "House", taped with his previous band, Ben Folds Five.

Disc Two: Live Performances
Disc two presents 15 live recordings of Ben Folds' performances that display his skill and adaptability as an artist. These live variations highlight the raw energy and emotion that Folds brings to his music. The disc includes performances of tracks like "The Luckiest", "Effington", "Not the Same", and "Jesusland". Listeners also get a taste of Folds' humor and wit in his live recordings of "One Angry Dwarf and 200 Solemn Faces" and "Zak and Sara".

Disc Three: Rarities and Unreleased Tracks
The 3rd disc features a collection of 16 unusual, hard-to-find, and formerly unreleased tracks from Ben Folds and Ben Folds Five. This disc is particularly interesting for long-time fans and collectors who might have never ever heard some of these songs. Emphasizes consist of "Girl", "Julianne", "Learn To Live With What You Are", and "Eddie Walker".

Reception and Legacy
"The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective" got typically favorable evaluations from music critics. Many praised the album as a comprehensive summary of Folds' profession and enjoyed the mix of biggest hits, live tracks, and unusual tunes. Some critics, however, felt that particular renowned tracks or variations were missing from the collection.

The retrospective serves not only as an event of Ben Folds' career however as an intimate journey through his development as an artist. It's a vital collection for any fan of Folds', from casual listeners to devoted veteran followers. As the collection spans across 20 years, it showcases the development of Folds' sound, lyrics, and musicianship, and stands as evidence of his effect on the alternative and indie music scene.

In conclusion, "The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective" is a must-have for any Ben Folds fan, offering a broad and detailed look at his profession, his best-known tracks, and previously unheard gems. It remains a testimony to his talent, experimentation, and enthusiasm for songwriting, fascinating listeners through his emotive and sincere lyricism, catchy tunes, and special musical plans.