The Hissing of Summer Lawns by Joni Mitchell (CD, 1975)

4943674216574

27050169915

Bud Shank, James Taylor, Graham Nash, Robben Ford, David Crosby, Wilton Felder, Joe Sample, Joni Mitchell, Larry Carlton

CD

1975

The Hissing of Summer Lawns

Rock

Personnel: Joni Mitchell (vocals, acoustic guitar, Moog, piano); James Taylor (guitar, background vocals); Jeff Baxter (guitar); Chuck Findley (flugelhorn); Victor Feldman (electric piano, congas, vibraphone); Max Bennett, Wilton Felder (bass); John Guerin (drums, Moog). All tracks have been digitally remastered using HDCD technology. A continuing move towards jazz was the most striking element of this record when first released. Larry Carlton and Robben Ford became two names to bandy around and appear cool. Indeed, their guitar playing throughout is superlative. The real strength, however, is the way in which Mitchell reached new plateaux with graceful ease. The remarkable "The Jungle Line" features the drums of Barundi and must be played loud to fully appreciate its avant garde quality. The opening line, "Rousseau walk on trumpet paths," has the listener reaching for the Dictionary Of Art. As understated and lyrically deep as anything she has recorded, it is a stunning piece of work.

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