Gorilla

"Gorilla" marked a notable shift for James Taylor, moving away from his earlier, deeply confessional style to embrace a lighter, more upbeat sound. Recorded in Burbank with Warner's staff producers Lenny Waronker and Russ Titelman, Taylor brought together an impressive band, augmented by high-profile guests such as Graham Nash, David Crosby, Carly Simon, mandolinist David Grisman, saxophone player David Sanborn, Randy Newman on "hornorgan," and Little Feat slide guitarist Lowell George. This ensemble created a set of light, pleasant songs like "Music" and "Love Songs," performed with taste and care. Taylor maintained a consistently positive tone; even in "Angry Blues," where he admitted, "I can't help it if I don't feel so good," the mood didn't seem overly troubled. The album features several standout tracks, including the catchy single "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)," which became a Top Ten hit and played a significant role in restoring Taylor's commercial fortunes. This success set him on a steady path that he would follow for decades. Songs such as "Mexico," "You Make It Easy," and "Lighthouse" are considered essential James Taylor numbers, highlighting his ability to craft memorable, enjoyable music. While some tracks, like "Sarah Maria," might seem less necessary, others, such as "Wandering," based on a traditional song, fit well within the album's overall feel. The title track, although not crucial to the album's impact, features a ukulele, an instrument that had largely fallen out of popular use until its revival in later years. This unique touch adds an interesting dimension to the album. Overall, "Gorilla" stands as a solid, quintessential James Taylor album, demonstrating his evolution from a confessional song poet to a more upbeat and accessible artist, solidifying his path in the music industry.

JAMES TAYLOR - Gorilla

RATING - 8.5/10

FAVORITE TRACKS - Mexico, Lighthouse, How Sweet It Is

GENRE - Soft rock, Folk rock