Natural History: The Very Best Of Talk Talk (CD 1990)

For those only familiar with MTV hits like "Talk Talk" and "It's My Life," this compilation is the beginning of a revelation. Talk Talk mastermind Mark Hollis is an eccentric genius whose hook-laden hits hide an equally satisfying catalog of art-rock experimentation. As Talk Talk evolved, Hollis (opting for a cut-up technique that anticipated the Pro-Tools revolution) ditched synth-pop and produced some of the most sublime late-night records ever. Think Stevie Winwood tranquilized by listening to too much Blue Nile and you start to get the picture. But fair warning: buy this album, and there's a good chance you'll end up purchasing the whole catalog