James Taylor - James Taylor

Signed to Apple Records, James Taylor had already made a name for himself as a songwriter, placing two songs on Tom Rush's classic album The Circle Game ("Sunshine, Sunshine," "Something in the Way She Moves"). Both appear here on his debut album alongside "Carolina on My Mind" (which features Paul McCartney on bass). Taylor's thin, reedy voice complements the wispy, often overly sensitive songs and the production by Peter Asher is understated throughout--even if it does at times include a string quartet. Only "Knocking at the Zoo" attempts to upset the gentle balance. As a poster boy for mellow, he succeeds. --Rob O'Connor Amazon.com

Can't You See the Sunshine?

There is something about time that is powerful and, perhaps, even supernatural. James Taylor's self-titled debut on Apple Records has that type of allure and charm where it pulls you into its simplicity, clasped by the gentleness of its eloquently crafted embrace for truth. That is what the gift of time collects and engenders - truth, as well as youth, and the beauty they exude. You must listen to this gem with a different set of ears than you would when appreciating his great, but commercial follow-up albums. Simply stated - a stunning personal masterpiece! August 18, 2008

NOT A BAD APPLE

This 1968 album was very hard to find from 1972 to 1995.
It finally was reissued and well remastered for the public when Apple started its reissue series.
CIRCLE ROUND THE SUN never sounded better. Too bad the original FIRE AND RAIN recording for Apple Records wasn't included. Thats OK Get your copy today. August 14, 2008

JT In The Raw

The first ever James Taylor album I was privvy to was "That's Why I'm Here" from 1985. From there on, I set about collecting them all, even that God Awful Flying Machine Album. But when I came to this one, with it's incredible foldout cover, and that Big Juicy Granny Smith On The Label, I was enchanted. I put it on, wondering if this was indeed the same James Taylor. In my experience his voice hadn't changed a whole lot from "Sweet Baby James to New Moon Shine". And so I listened, and I recognized the voice, although it was such a raw, unrefined Taylor. I think that's where this album wins. It IS raw, and a running musical commentary on a life muddled with Drugs, and personal turmoil. The five stars this album recieved were earned with Sweat, musical toil, and the exorsizing of personal demons. Best Folk Debut. Ever. August 5, 2008

Candy for the ears! - A charming album from 1968

Released on the Beatles' APPLE record label in 1968, a young James Taylor sparkles with energy and imagination. This is perhaps his least commercial and most entertaining LP, with outstanding musicianship. You will hear harp, harpsichord, violin, cello, harmonica, oboe, acoustic and electric guitars, saxophone, horns, flutes and more! The lyrics are sweet and poetic, with rich and pleasing melodies and harmonies that will bring about smiles. The songs melt into each other with charming orchestral segues, occasionally drifting into avant-garde and classical styles. Some reviewers have complained that the album is overproduced. It is true that there is a lot of orchestration woven into this album, but not at the expense of James' voice and beautiful guitar playing. The contrary is so, complimenting his work. These recordings are made in true 60s multi-track fashion, providing a vivid stereophonic experience. A great CD for those lazy days or romantic evenings with that special someone. May 28, 2008

Pathic

These were some wonderful,simple songs. Then some dink comes along and over aranges them. It just plain too much tinkering March 3, 2008

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