I'll Get Along

Dan Israel has taken two decades, 12 albums, and one monumental career to consider putting out a vinyl record, but we finally have it. Set to coincide with the release of his new album Live On, Israel is pleased to announce the debut of Danthology, a two-LP set containing what he considers to be 25 of his best songs.

Danthology is a limited edition vinyl-only compilation, and it spans across Israel’s extensive catalog. Far from a “greatest hits” album—Israel, with his characteristic humility and Midwestern sensibilities, has a hard time crediting himself with having things such as “greatest hits”—Danthology is a very special offering.

“It’s really important for me to be able to put this out on vinyl,” says Israel, who noted that his earliest attachments to music were from vinyl records. “It’s really more of an album for the fans, for the ones that have been supporting me throughout the years.”

Part of what made Danthology possible is the Kickstarter campaign that the singer organized in early 2013, and so it’s fitting that the creative loop comes full-circle. Danthology is an album funded by the fans and made for the fans, and it’s with that mindset that Israel composed the track listing. The two LPs contain classic selections from Turning, Time I Get Home, Love Ain’t a Cliché, See the Morning Light, Mama’s Kitchen, Dan Israel, Crosstown Traveler, his seminal Dan Who?, and the forthcoming Live On.

“I really wanted to represent both the rocker and the folk singer stuff,” says Israel of the compilation. “Side A and C are both more rocking songs, and Side B and D are primarily acoustic. I think the people that listen to my music will appreciate both.”

Ultimately, Danthology is a long overdue collection from a first-rate singer-songwriter who refuses to be pigeonholed or held down by categories. Israel has seen the times change and the industry flip more than he can remember, but the true test of time—and good songwriting—is what remains through the years. With Danthology, Israel offers proof that his talent has been around for a long time, and it’s here to stay.