Retrospective: The Best of Suzanne Vega

"Retrospective: The Best of Suzanne Vega" is a compilation album by American singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega. The album was released on April 22, 2003. This collection features selections from Vega's first five studio albums- "Suzanne Vega" (1985), "Solitude Standing" (1987), "Days of Open Hand" (1990), "99.9F°" (1992), and "Nine Objects of Desire" (1996).

The album is designed to showcase Vega's songwriting skill and her distinct voice that was considered one of the most distinctive in pop music--warm, vibrant, and slightly brittle at the same time. It includes popular songs like “Luka,” which was a major hit when it was released and “Tom's Diner," which has been extensively famous due to its remix versions and covers. Further, the album also highlights Vega’s ability to deliver songs that meld attractive melodies with finely detailed lyrics.

This best-of compilation is the perfect gateway into the music and artistry of Suzanne Vega, particularly for those who aren't familiar with her music, as it provides a fine sampling of her work from the preceding years. It exemplifies Vega's poetic lyrics, minimalist acoustic-based music, and her deft and subtle exploration of personal and social issues.