For what it's worth, my two cents on a few of the topics that have been rhubarbed over the past several days:
I want to throw my vote in with the pro-"Talk to Me" folks. I like it. I think it's lyrically clever and I like JM's vocal. I also think it's a very good portrayal of someone in love enough to humiliate herself - and if you've never been in that position yourself, just wait. As for Chinese Cafe/Unchained Melody, it's been one of my favorite Joni records since the release of Wild Things, but the first time I heard the version on T'log, it brought tears to my eyes. I don't know how you all feel, but I love Joni's deep contralto voice even more than I loved her girly soprano of old. Such richness, and such wisdom and experince behind it. Re: T'log, I don't think anyone has yet pointed out that the great pop and jazz singers of the early-to-mid-20th century were known for recording the same songs many times over the course of a long career (see Frank, Ella, Billie, etc.). I think T'log is like that. I admit, I do have to be in a certain mood for some of the more turgid songs, but overall I think it's an admirable album. As for future music from Joni, I guess only she knows ... Peace, y'all. Larry D
