专辑简介

This CD is a wonderful introduction to anyone unfamiliar with the amazing range of Judy Collins talents as a singer, songwriter, and arranger of her own work. Early in her career she sang songs written almost exclusively by others, with occasional surprises like "My Father" or "Albatross". Yet here she shows just how accomplished a songwriter and lyricist she became over the span of her career. From the homespun gentleness of the opening "Cook With Honey" to the wistful "So Begins The Task" (written by Stephen Stills) to the maudlin and searching lyrics of "The Dealer (Down and Losing)", this song cycle stands as a timely reminder of why Judy has a place reserved in the pantheon of folk greats. Much more is here, from the highly autobiographical trio of "Secret Gardens", "Holly Ann" (about her younger sister), and "Song For Martin (a friend who committed suicide). In each of these Judy plumbs the depths of contemporary folk music, taking her leave with the remarkable, provocative, and evocative tale of "Che", a consideration of the fabled Cuban revolutionary's final years in Bolivia. This is a terrific album that is often overlooked because of it has no top forty hits on it (although "Cook With Honey" did get some air play). Remedy that mistake by listening to this a few times. I'm sure it will quickly find its way to your favorites.