Clouds
Joni Mitchell's second album contains the first manifestations of her artistic brilliance. Where her debut,Song to a Seagull, has hints of greatness,Cloudsdisplays the real thing. With her newfound control on melody and lyrical economy, she delivers songs that are readily accessible, instantly hummable, and virtually timeless. Her hippie excesses are still in view ("Songs to Aging Children Come" is untamed), but, for the most part, she has found her voice. "Both Sides Now" has become a lite-FM staple (thanks toJudy Collins's cover). While songs such as the incredibly idyllic "Tin Angel" (nicely covered by Tom Rush on his classicCircle Game), "Chelsea Morning," and "I Don't Know Where I Stand" have become modern folk standards.--Rob O'Connor