Search - James Taylor :: Classic Songs

Probably the best re-mastered compilation of James Taylor's

Colin Spence | Formby, UK | 05/01/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"During the 1970s, James Taylor had a dozen or so major hit singles in the US (and a fair number in the UK also), and most of these are on 'Classic Songs'. Additionally, there are 3 absolute 'gems' which weren't big hits : 'Carolina On My Mind' (original version), 'Something In the Way She Moves' and 'Sweet Baby James' (as my memory best serves me, the latter two songs were never released as singles). There are a number of songs, mainly on the second half of the album, which don't do a great deal for me - a few originals which I find rather bland and a few covers which leave me moderately underwhelmed (with the exception of 'Handyman'). That said, all of these songs are amongst his most popular recordings - so it makes perfect sense to have them on this (or any) compilation.



Easy listening soft-rock isn't usually the type of music that I buy, and I doubt if I would be tempted by any of JT's regular albums. Nevertheless, he has a smooth and reassuringly pleasant voice with just enough of a distinctive edge to make him stand out from the crowd. Whilst I think that he has written some exceptionally good songs, I also think that his writing is uneven - but many of his best ever songs can be found on this album. Also, the production and vocal/instrumental accompaniment is very classy and the re-mastered sound quality is excellent. Moreover, those songs from the early 70s bring back some good memories - halcyon days before I had any kids (or a mortgage). The liner notes are very basic - no bio, song lyrics or musician credits.



There are 6 or 7 songs that don't appeal to me very much and, if I were rating this album based upon my overall enjoyment of it, I'd give it 3 stars. However, my personal preferences aside, as a compilation entitled 'James Taylor - Classic Songs' it delivers what it promises and, as such, it merits a higher rating. A viable alternative to this album is the less expensive The Best of James Taylor; this has 4 more tracks and it includes all of the tracks on 'Classic Songs' except 'Everyday' and 'Her Town Too'. I don't have this album, but I'm fairly certain that it isn't re-mastered; furthermore, I believe 'Carolina On My Mind' is a 1976 re-recording at a slightly slower tempo. Nonetheless, either album can be strongly recommended to casual fans who want to get their hands on some of the best of JT's earlier music - the one I just happen to own is 'Classic Songs'.



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