Joni Mitchell - Ladies Of The Canyon (1970)

Note: the CD I listened to was the 1996 reissue.

Joni Mitchell albums, to me, are becoming much like Beatles releases, in that whichever album I'm listening to at the time, I believe is the best release by that particular artist. This beautiful thing certainly qualifies. Comforting while simultaneously thought-provoking. Wow. And I'd rather listen than write, so I'm tapping out now.

Press of the time:

• Robert Christgau (A-): "Joni's new dependence on piano implies a move from the open air to the drawing room--or at least living area--that's reflected in richer, more sophisticated songs."
• Billboard: "a delightful set of 12 fine cuts"
• CashBox: "sensitive, poetic lyrics, evocative melodies and fine voice and guitar playing"
• Rolling Stone: "An album of departures, overheard conversations and unique triumphs for the hymnal lady who mingles the random with the particular so effectively."
• RPM Weekly: "excellent MOR programming material"
• Stereo Review: Recording of Special Merit
• High Fidelity: "I can't recommend anyone more highly."

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: #27
• CashBox: #18

Tracks: 12 beautiful songs, delightfully delivered, perfectly sequenced.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: This was one of several early '70s Mitchell albums that helped me get through some emotionally tough spring/summer months in 2023.

Previously revisited for the blog:
The Hissing of Summer Lawns (1975)
Court And Spark (1974)
Blue (1971)