Joni Mitchell - Wild Things Run Fast - Music & Performance - CD

The Joni Mitchell of the early '80s settled into a mature, adult-contemporary sound that was often a turn-off to her folk/pop following. Many dismissed Mitchell's use of L.A. session musicians and jazz inflections as superficial and flashy. As 1982's WILD THINGS RUN FAST proves, nothing could be further from the truth. Mitchell's compositional skills are as sharp as ever. Her dusky vocals are deftly supported by a group of exceptional players producing a sound that is glossy but full of depth as Mitchell's rich lyrics find a comfortable space in this contemporary setting.

The opening "Chinese Cafe" is vintage Joni; a reminiscence of youth through the haunting tones of "Unchained Melody." The driving title track is a refined rocker that Mitchell handles in her signature style. The swinging "Moon At The Window" is a dark blues with guest Wayne Shorter (sax) adding a colorful accompaniment to Mitchell's layered vocals. On a lighter note, the stylized cover of "(You're So Square) Baby, I Don't Care" is a nice departures that make this record a treat. The biggest standout has to be "You Dream Flat Tires," a dynamic shuffle with one of the most complex arrangements that Mitchell has ever recorded.