Joan Baez Debut Album

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Customer reviews

review by: date: 2009-01-20 rating:
Hauntingly, achingly, heart-wrenchingly beautiful
This CD was my first introduction to Joan Baez (besides her song 'Diamonds and Rust') and lets just say it was love at first listen - I now own 16 of her CDs and counting but this is still my absolute favourite. br /Never have I ever heard another singer come close to the passion and fragility that Joan Baez conveys in the songs heard here (or indeed any of the songs she sings). I completely disagree with the amazon reviewer who said that this CD is no different to the CD debuts of Judy Collins or Carolyn Hester. Although many suggest it is the songs themselves that are magic, one only has to listen to Judy Collin's rendition of 'John Riley' and Joan Baez's to see that this is not entirely true. Although the song itself is undeniably beautiful, Joan Baez doesn't just sing the words as Judy Collins does, she IS the words, you FEEL the song and are moved by the experience. Judy Collins just doesn't have the voice or passion to sing traditional folk songs -her voice being rather harsh, forced and devoid of passion. Joan Baez's voice on the other hand, is sparkling, soft, haunting, haunted, passionate, warbling, frightened, thrilling, melancholy and just heartachingly beautiful. I have never heard anyone sing like her. My favourites on this CD are Silver Dagger, East Virginia, Fare Thee Well, John Riley and Henry Martin. Buy this CD and when you feel compelled to buy another of her CDs and listen to no one but Joan don't say I didn't warn you..Joan Baez is addictive.

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review by: date: 2008-12-20 rating:
The best early Joan Baez album
Recorded in 1960, at the age of 19, this was the album that established Joan Baez's reputation. The material is all from a variety of traditional sources, albeit with some differences in arrangements from previous recordings. Musically, it couldn't be simpler; the whole album is voice self-accompanied on accoustic guitar. What makes it stand out is the quality of singing. Joan's voice is crystal clear, yet passionate without being the least bit haughty. Alledgedly, her soprano voice was capable of breaking glass. Just occasionally, e.g. on House of the Rising Sun, it becomes too penetrating. For the most part, however, it is well-controlled and at its best it arches effortlessly over the melody. Listening to her singing the word East in East Virginia is worth the entry price alone.


review by: date: 2004-04-24 rating:
Incredibly beautiful voice, an absolutely essential record.
I bought this album in a second hand store on vinyl a month ago, notknowing what to expect, on spec. I needn't have worried. Joan Baez has themost magnificent soprano, classy yet emotive, with range, control, andunderstated power. Simple guitar accompaniament to these classic songs isso appropriate. brThis is an artist crying out to be rediscovered. I amso glad I took a punt. You must get this recording.

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