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Yes, Virginia, there was a time when quiet, reflective acoustic music was the rage. "Sweet Baby James" combines allusions to the lonely quiet of cowboy life and modern highway driving with marvelous poetry. I confess that I am partial to Taylor's earlier work. James Taylor's music exemplified the best of the folk and folk-rock traditions that grew out of the 1960s and early 70s. "The Best of James Taylor" is worth listening to, by old fans but especially by younger listeners who hear so little serious reflective, unironic, lyrical music. Some of his tunes are classics. And not just in supermarkets and elevators, and not all that long ago. The line, "Now the first of December was covered with snow; so were the Berkshires from Stockbridge to Boston" never fails to conjure an image of silent, snow-girt, ribbons of highway undulating over forested New England hills.
"Fire and Rain," telling of the death of one of the singer's friends, perfectly captures the wistful reaction of youth when faced with untimely death. "Carolina on my Mind" is a soulful elegy to the peace and harmony of rural life. Later works, like "Handyman" and "Shower the People," lack the subtlety, musicality and introspective charm of masterpieces like "Something in the Way She Walks." But that's me. Music that everyone needs to hear often, or at least once.
This album covers most of his earlier work. Songs like "Sweet Baby James" bring tears to my eyes. "Mexico" is another favorite. There isn't one dud on the album.
The problem with best of's is that is mostly not complete. There is missing 1 - 2 important songs
This CD claims to be the best of JT and I think it delivers.Really enjoyed it.
Like James Taylor. Then this is for you. All his hits plus some.
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