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.
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.