Mitchell sparks

Press, 10 February 1983, Page 14

Mitchell sparks

JONI MITCHELL “Wild Things Run Free” (Geffen GHS 2019). Joni Mitchell lost some fans when she brought out “Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter,” and the heavilyjazz influenced “Mingus,” dedicated to the late, great Charlie Mingus. But you can be sure that “Wild Things Run Free” will have them ■coming back, as it is her most accessible album since “Court and Spark,” eight years ago. The interesting point about this album is that at first nothing really stands out — until several listens later. The opening track, “Chinese Cafe” “Unchained Melody,” mixes the new song with the 60s romantic hit, a generation has grown up. “Nothing lasts for ever,” she i sings, and it serves as a warning to those who yearn for another “Ladies of the Canyon.”, Mitchell rocks more and is more adventurous than before. Having got the genera-

tion matter out of the way, she deals with her more usual concerns — love and emotion. The title song, “Wild Things Run Free” and “You Dream Flat Tires” are both uptempo, and even Lieber and Stoller’s “(You’re so Square) Baby, I Don’t Care),” is given the right treatment — even if there is better single material on the album. Lionel Ritchie truly fits in on "You Dream Flat Tires” and “Man to Man,” and the rest of the backing is also excellent, especially on “Be Cool.” The humour is not lacking either as a close listen to Mitchell’s vocal variations on “Underneath The Streetlight” show. “Wild Things Run Free” is an excellent album. The execution of the songs in a popjazz approach leave Rickie Lee Jones for dead, and although the songwriting is less personal, it is still deadly. - NEVIN TOPP.