Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
This One Is Truly Terrific!, September 2, 2004
This album was released when John was at the apex of his popularity, and the songs on this album served to continue his ride into the stratosphere. From the wry and yet poignant "I'd Rather Be A Cowboy" to the incredible smash hit "Farewell Andromeda", John Denver showcases his incredible talents here. Denver was instrumental in firmly fixing the younger generation's sights and sensibilities upon the outdoors in general and on environmental issues in particular, and he nearly single-handedly began the outdoor backpacking, hiking, and orienteering movements after popularizing the idea of a more close and intimate human relationship with mother nature. Therefore, more than a few of the young baby-boomers, like John, were more than ready for the kind of unconventional intimacy with nature he sang about so effortlessly and so elegantly. From "Zachary And Jennifer" to an evocative and almost ethereal "Rocky Mountain Suite'", Denver's songs soar in their description of the beauties of a simple and natural life and in being close to the "great wide-open'.
Denver also does an unusually good rendition of "Berkeley Woman", written by a friend but usually identified with Denver himself. He shows that even a sugary sweetheart like him can have some "colorful" thoughts about women. Indeed, the simple and well arranged acoustic blast of infectious energy and sweet simplicity that was John Denver is here in spades, whether it be in original songs like "Sweet Misery" or with covers of others' work, the kid who had adopted the majesty of Colorado for his setting and his inspiration sings simply, sentimentally, and superbly about the simple pleasures and undying verities of a homespun and simple life well lived. My special favorites here are "Berkeley Woman" and "I'd Rather be A Cowboy", and I always wondered why they weren't bigger hits for John. Hearing John sing in his youthful enthusiasm about what turns him on is still a rare treat. As with many of his albums, the message outlives the messenger. It has successfully weathered all the seasons since with its energy and beauty intact. I love this album, and I think you will too. Enjoy.
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18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A supurb folk album..., October 2, 1999
By A Customer
John had some tall shoes to fill in his first release after Rocky Mountain High, and Farewell Andromeda fills them entirly, if in a slightly different style. This album has the unique feel of a real folk album, every track smoothly introduces the next, and John is right on target with every one of them. John opens with a riviting performance of one of his finest compositions, "I'd Rather Be a Cowboy". As the album continues you are treated to a wide variety great tunes, from a cover of John Prine's "Angels From Montgomery" to the albums closing title track "Farewell Andromeda" (Welcome to My Morning). What seperates this album from the rest is John's relaxed set of flok songs. You get the feeling that he is singing for you. This is what he would play if he were with you in the mountains, on a picnic, or out fishing. It is as if he made this album especially for the times when you need to get away and take your mind to a simpler place. Buy it and enjoy, it is a treasure for anyone.
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13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Angel from Montgomery, November 19, 2003
By A Customer
You have to appreciate that it is most simplistic to criticize an artist for their excess, not for what did well.This album was an example of some stunning interpretations of songs that worked for this artist. Angel from Montgomery, Please Daddy and Rocky Mountain Suite are vital, warm and stand the test. It is disappointing that John Denver never received his due for this type of work. Along with Darcy Farrow and Mother Nature's Son on Rocky Mountain High his work was true. You can ask for little more. Plus, he could sing. A high true tenor. Ease up on the criticism and open up to his manner.
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