Reviews and Commentaries for the Music of Joan Baez
Sonic Grade: B+
This review is from many years ago, at least ten I would think, so take it for what it’s worth.
One of the best Half Speed Mastered Records we have ever played.
In our recent shootout we were shocked — shocked — to hear how good our old copy of Diamonds and Rust on Nautilus sounded head to head against some of the best pressings we could find.
If I hadn’t heard it with my own two ears, I wouldn’t have believed it.
Wonderful sound — rich, full, warm, and sweet. The vocals are full-bodied and breathy. The acoustic guitars are fairly natural for a pop recording from 1975.
Play Jesse on side two to hear the lovely space of the studio, as well as more harmonic extension on the acoustic instruments. Watch out for track two; the EQ on the vocal is always a problem. (more…)