Pianist Newman didn't fit the average 70s singer/songwriter mould, but rather infused his music with often humorous topicality and a bluesy New Orleans-style sound. It's a toss-up between 1972's Sail Away and this one for his best, but with Ry Cooder featuring on several tracks 12 Songs is a hands-down winner on the folk front.
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Parallelograms Linda Perhacs 1970 [Kapp]
The only LP from the elusive Linda Perhacs is often compared to Joni Mitchell. It is a cult curio of the highest order, with the record company unable to track her down for the 1998 CD reissue. A fairly sparse effort with only occasional vocal over-dubbing, a few subtle sound effects and some West Coast cool courtesy of jazz drummer Shelly Manne.
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White Light Gene Clark 1971 [A&M]
Evidence that Gene Clark's exit from the Byrds in 1966 deprived the band of much of its songwriting soul. This is one of the most beautiful country-folk albums ever made, with the 2002 CD reissue including some welcome bonuses. Originally released as an eponymous debut, an ardent cult following bestowed the White Light moniker.
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John Prine John Prine 1971 [Atlantic]
A critical smash, but unfortunately a commercial flop. Prine's often humorous Dylanesque ramblings are a well-crafted blend of folk, rock and country. The best here is the underground hit 'Illegal Smile' and oft-covered 'Angel From Montgomery'. Unfortunately, despite so much quality material it is the drug humour that is best remembered.
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American Pie Don McLean 1971 [United Artists/EMI]
Except for the title track and possibly minor hit 'Vincent', most won't remember too much about this album. 'American Pie' became an all-time favourite in pubs and clubs all over the world, in the process dooming McLean's other material to obscurity. For those willing to listen, this a great folk-influenced singer/songwriter record.
After getting jailed for possession of heroin Sill kicked the habit, eventually making this terrific album while clean of drugs. The record was the debut for David Geffen's Asylum label and features some heavy orchestral backing typical of what would become the 'Laurel Canyon sound'. A somewhat dark effort from a deeply troubled mind.
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If Only I Could Remember My Name David Crosby 1971 [Atlantic]
The ultimate laidback trippy-hippie spiritual meditation features an all-star cast in support. Neil Young and Graham Nash give the record a CSNY feel in places - with Jerry Garcia, some Jefferson Airplane alumni and Joni Mitchell also along for the ride. As uplifting as the music is, the album's title probably refers to Crosby's battles with drug use.
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Paul Simon Paul Simon 1972 [Warner]
Given the lavish production of the last Simon & Garfunkel effort, this acoustically-driven gem came as somewhat of a surprise. While the first two tracks signalled Simon's growing fascination with reggae rhythms and worldbeat, the rest consists mostly of rootsy folk forays of varying tempos. Top track: 'Me & Julio Down By the Schoolyard'.
