Essential is a compilation of American guitarist Leo Kottke's releases on the Chrysalis label, released in 1991. It includes liner notes by Fred Goodman. A number of compilations have been made of Kottke's music by his various record labels. Capitol had previously released 1971-1976 and The Best. The Rhino box set release Anthology covers the first 15 years of Kottke's career and includes selections from the Takoma, Capitol, and Chrysalis releases along with extensive liner notes. Capitol later released another compilation package titled The Best of Leo Kottke.