Joni Mitchell's Overlooked Asylum Years: Discovering Hidden Gems

The author's exploration of Joni Mitchell's music primarily began with her 1969 album 'Clouds', extending only to 'Hejira' from 1976. Due to personal discomfort with Mitchell's controversial album covers, particularly one featuring her in blackface, the author initially avoided engaging with the later works. However, they have recently confronted these barriers, allowing for a deeper appreciation of albums like 'Don Juan's Restless Daughter' and 'Mingus'. These records challenge the listener with their improvisational and unpredictable nature, showcasing Mitchell's continued evolution as an artist. The author finds thematic coherence in the collage of Mitchell's live album 'Shadows and Light', which showcases songs from a span of ten years, illustrating her growth and complexity. Each song within these albums allows for an independent interpretation but also connects through motifs and recurring themes of escape and uncertainty. Through this lens, the author's understanding of Mitchell's artistry matures, revealing her commitment to a creative vision prioritized over commercial success. Ultimately, the author experiences a balance between their initial comfort with Mitchell's earlier works and the challenge presented by her later, more experimental projects. This dual engagement fosters a profound connection to her music, instilling a desire to explore this lesser-known chapter of her career. By navigating these complex narratives, they embrace a fuller comprehension of her impact as a songwriter and artist.