Artista: Joni Mitchell Album: The Hissing of Summer Lawns

Anno: 1975
Tempo: 0:0-1

Una Critica dell'album The Hissing of Summer Lawns di Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell is a Canadian singer-songwriter with a career spanning over five decades. Her music is recognized for its fusion of different genres, from folk and country to rock and jazz. One of her most controversial albums is The Hissing of Summer Lawns, released in 1975. Despite receiving mixed reviews at the time, it has gained a loyal fanbase over the years. In this blog post, we will review the album, highlight the best songs, and discuss the context in which it was born.

The Hissing of Summer Lawns opens with In France They Kiss on Main Street, a perfect example of Mitchell's storytelling abilities. The nostalgic lyrics paint a picture of small-town life as she sings, Little changes with the big hotel. The jazzy piano chords and the catchy chorus make it one of the standout tracks.

The title track, The Hissing of Summer Lawns, is a mesmerizing instrumental piece that sets a dreamy mood. The horns and the percussion maintain a constant hissing sound in the background, reflecting the album's theme: suburban boredom, and disconnection.

Another highlight of the album is Edith and the Kingpin. The song tells a story of a glamorous woman who falls for a criminal mastermind. The saxophone solo is hauntingly beautiful, and the lyrics are some of Mitchell's best.

One of the most experimental tracks is Shades of Scarlett Conquering. The song is a mix of jazz and rock, with a spoken-word interlude in the middle. It's a challenging listen, but its complexity rewards multiple listens.

Overall, The Hissing of Summer Lawns is an album that requires patience and an open mind. It may not be an easy listen, but its musical richness and lyrical depth make it worthwhile. However, it's not without its flaws.

Some critics accused Mitchell of cultural appropriation for her use of jazz elements. Others found the album too cerebral, without emotional resonance. It's true that some tracks may feel distant and cold, but I believe that's the intention. The Hissing of Summer Lawns is an album that observes the world with detachment, like a cinematic experience.

In conclusion, The Hissing of Summer Lawns is a beautiful, flawed, and fascinating album. Joni Mitchell's musical genius shines through every track, even when she takes risks that may not pay off. It's an album that rewards patience, reflection, and close listening. While it may not be for everyone, it's a vital piece of Mitchell's discography and a testament to her artistic vision.