Souvenirs

Japanese pressing of the singer/songwriter's 2004 release. 'Souvenirs' is a superb introduction to the supremely gifted Janis Ian, which ranges from the confessional intimacy of the ground-breaking smash hit 'At Seventeen', to the richly-orchestrated 'Jesse', and the stark, unadorned 'Stars' - all impressive examples of Ian's unique compositional style. Featured on the recordings are fine instrumental performances from musicians such as Chick Corea, Steve Gadd, Jeff Porcaro, but it is Ian's way with words - whether it's the brilliant detailing of excess and indulgence that is 'Party Lights', or the thoughtful, but vivid imagery of 'Miracle Row' - that shines through. 'Souvenirs' also features 'Fly Too High', written with German producer Giorgio Moroder, from the soundtrack to the motion picture 'Foxes', and the dramatic 'Belle of the Blues', arranged by Jerry Ragavoy, a veteran of countless classic Uptown Soul and R&B recordings. 'Souvenirs' is a consistently surprising and rewarding entrée to Janis Ian's career, a body of work that has survived transient musical trends, and, with the most recent album, 'Billie's Bones', shows no sign of complacency or 'blanding out'. JVC. 2004.