Azeem's original post and Eric's reply sure have stirred up the pot, yes? Personally, I'm not incensed by either, Fact is, I agree/disagree with them both.
I agree that Joni's voice is rough in spots (particularly in SLOUCHING and JUDGEMENT). I don't agree that it doesn't have its new charms. I agree that Joni should quit smoking (and I'm a smoker) -- but mainly because I want her to live forever (and yeah, her voice might improve). I don't agree that the orchestrations add nothing to the songs. I do agree that I'd like to hear a stripped-down Joni album next. I don't agree that Joni's variations in phrasing add nothing new. I do agree that FOR THE ROSES is a bit much -- although it is growing on me (I love someone's earlier comment that it has a Nora Desmond quality!). I don't agree that the choir in SLOUCHING deserves a "Yuck!" (although I did at first). I do agree that Joni could use a vocal coach (she herself has said she doesn't take proper care of her voice). I don't agree that a negative opinion should be met with contempt (which, I'm afraid, often happens here). I do agree that a work of art like T'LOG deserves several listens before judgment is passed (which too damn many critics don't seem to "get"). I don't agree that Azeem shouldn't feel free to have his say. I do agree that people don't seem to want to allow Joni to be 59. I don't agree that Eric shouldn't feel free to have his say. Think of me as Faye Dunaway in the slapping scene in CHINATOWN (my favourite movie ever): "I DO agree! I DON'T agree! I DO agree!..." MICHAEL in Toronto
