How many can you say this about: eight great albums in eight years, at least two masterpieces? One of those, 1974's Court and Spark, is among a trio rereleased this month in expanded form. This selection, from 1968 to 1976, captures Joni at her peak, jazz- and folk-tinted melodies soaring in the major, breaking hearts in the minor, lyrics both soothing and skewering. A good half-dozen alternative Top 10's suggest themselves, and clamour for supremacy.
1 The Last Time I Saw Richard. A vocal line that flits like paper in the wind; a lyric with a lethal sting.
2 Free Man in Paris. David Geffen gets dipped in her caustic acidity.
3 My Old Man. A celebration of domestic bliss? The tune drags this classic down darker paths.
4 Chelsea Morning. An early appearance for those fluting, just-out-of-tune harmonies.
5 Marcie. Rare for Mitchell, no ambiguity: a tune as melancholy as the words.
6 In France They Kiss on Main Street. One of her most beguilingly serpentine melodies.
7 Songs to Aging Children Come. Ever wondered what inspires Joanna Newsom?
8 The Same Situation. Pondering love and fidelity on Court and Spark.
9 Blonde in the Bleachers. An intriguing hybrid - lyrics bemoaning rocknroll men, tune off on jazz tangents.
10 Amelia. Amelia Earhart inspires a devastatingly resigned soul-baring.
Printed from the official Joni Mitchell website. Permanent link: https://jonimitchell.com/library/view.cfm?id=1521
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