Joni Mitchell’s “The Asylum Albums (1976-1980)”
Joni Mitchell, a name synonymous with poetic lyrics and pioneering musical landscapes, continues to enthral her fans with the latest release from her Archives series, “The Asylum Albums (1976-1980).” This collection marks a critical period in Mitchell’s career, highlighting a transformative journey through her bold musical explorations.
After the tour for “The Hissing of Summer Lawns,” Joni found sanctuary in Neil Young’s beach house, leading to a period rich in travel and artistic discovery. It was during this time that Mitchell embarked on several road trips that profoundly influenced her musical direction. This sense of wanderlust is palpable throughout the albums featured in this collection, each one a testament to her evolving sound and exploratory nature.
What’s Inside “The Asylum Albums”
The collection features newly remastered versions of four pivotal works:
Hejira (1976): Known for its subdued instrumentation and introspective lyrics, tracks like “Coyote” and “Furry Sings The Blues” showcase Mitchell’s unique lyrical narratives.
Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter (1977): This double album pushes boundaries with experimental sounds, highlighted by “Paprika Plains,” a side-long track that blends piano with orchestral arrangements.
Mingus (1979): A collaboration with jazz legend Charles Mingus, this album dives deep into jazz, enriched by Mitchell’s lyrical adaptations of Mingus’s compositions.
Shadows and Light (1980): Captured live, this album features performances from the Mingus tour and includes tracks like “Amelia” and “The Dry Cleaner From Des Moines.”
Each album within this collection has been meticulously remastered by Bernie Grundman from the original analog master tapes, ensuring that the depth and warmth of Mitchell’s music are preserved and enhanced.
Limited Edition Release
Available from Rhino on June 21st, “The Asylum Albums” can be owned as a 5-CD set or a limited edition 6-LP version pressed on 180-gram vinyl, with only 5,000 copies available. The collection is also accessible digitally for modern listeners. The cover art, featuring a portion of one of Mitchell’s original paintings, adds a personal touch that fans will cherish.
Liner Notes by Meryl Streep
Adding to the set’s uniqueness, Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep, a lifelong admirer of Mitchell, contributes a heartfelt essay. Streep writes about the transformative impact of Joni’s artistry, not just in music but in how it alters us internally, reflecting on how artists like Mitchell “change the world.”
The release of “The Asylum Albums” is a precursor to the Joni Mitchell Archives Vol. 4, promising further explorations into Mitchell’s unreleased recordings. More details on this next installment will be revealed later in the year.
For new listeners and lifelong fans alike, these albums offer a window into the soul of one of music’s most enduring voices. As we listen to these remastered tracks, we are reminded of Joni Mitchell’s timeless appeal and her relentless pursuit of artistic truth.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine