Joni Mitchell - Blue (1971)

 

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Joni's 4th release and one of my personal favorites. Her voice is iconic on this record. It rises and falls over each track, like waves on the ocean, and I get lost in it with every spin. It's a short trip, but always a pleasant one. It borders on sad bastard music at times, but damn if she doesn't make it sound sexy. Acid, booze, and ass. Needles, guns, and grass. Lots of laughs.

Blue

Vashti Bunyan - Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind – Singles and Demos 1964 to 1967 (2007)

 

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Vashti has a pretty interesting story. She recorded numerous demos and singles, and a debut record in 1970. Sadly, her beautifully haunting voice didn't make that much of an impression on the English folk scene in the 1970's and Vashti willingly faded into obscurity to raise her children and live a pretty normal life. 

Fast-forward nearly 30 years and the world [myself included] discovers Vashti's sweet voice once again. This time it made the impact she was hoping for all those years ago, unbeknownst to her. Here collected are 29 singles and demos recorded during the 1960's, over about 3 years. Stand out track and how I was introduced Train Song really climbed inside me and hasn't left in years. Vashti' popularity has allowed her to record 2 new records since 2005, which will eventually make their way here. Pour a drink and take this for a spin.

Some Things Just Stick in Your Mind – Singles and Demos 1964 to 1967

Foy Vance – Live At Bangor Abbey (2014)

 

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Vance has a voice that immediately grew on me. It has a slightly gravel, almost southern vibe. Reminiscent of Tom Waits circa Blue Valentine. I discovered him by chance on a random YouTube suggestion.

This set really shows him in great form, with standout tracks like Make it Rain, and Feel for Me. this is real singer-songwriter stuff here. A very intimate show, and pleasant driving music to boot. Give it a spin and relax. The year is almost over.

Live At Bangor Abbey