John Doe is much more likely to look ahead to what’s next, rather than fixate on the past – even a past as storied and influential as his own. Part scrapbook, part roadmap, The Best of John Doe: This Far – available May 20, 2014 via Yep Roc – guides listeners through Doe’s solo catalog. Compiled by Doe himself,  the generous track listing (24 songs on download and double vinyl, 21 on CD) encompasses nearly a quarter century, highlighting songs from from nine records on six different labels. Sequenced non-chronologically, The Best of John Doe: This Far was compiled with four vinyl sides in mind. There was no formula: These are simply Doe’s favorite moments, including in-concert staples, pivotal collaborations, personal milestones, and even a pair of unreleased reexaminations of songs from his past.

This exciting new album is now available for pre-order at the Yep Roc Store.  The first 100 pre-orders will receive a limited-edition 7-inch with two newly recorded acoustic versions “Take #52” and “Poor Girl,” and feature the non-album track “French Lieutenant’s Woman.”  The first 500 orders will also include a sticker of the album’s cover art.  Even if you can’t make it within the first 500, all pre-order will receive an instant download of “Take #52.”

Watch John Doe discuss the process of building the album in the player below.