Record of the Day – 003: Shadows and Light

Though the performance for the album was recorded in September of 1979, at the Santa Barbara Bowl in California, I had seen this show a month earlier at Alpine Valley Music Theater in Wisconsin. It still stands out as one of the most amazing live experiences I’ve had.

Mitchell has always surrounded herself with stellar performers, but this was a special lineup featuring Jaco Pastorius, Pat Metheny, Lyle Mays, MIchael Brecker, and Don Alias. The setlist was the best of her material to date, starting with “In France They Kiss on Main Street” and “Edith And The Kingpin” from The Hissing of Summer Lawns, and ending with “Woodstock.”

Originally mastered by Bernie Grundman, the current remaster pictured here is also handled by Mr. Grundman. I can honestly say this is one of the few records I think I wore out. Whether you were there, and re-living the experience, or just someone who digs Joni Mitchell – this is a record you should own.

Considering how popular and loved Ms. Mitchell remains, this is a rare glimpse of her at her absolute peak.

Record of the Day is brought to you by Bergmann Audio, and Supreme Acoustic Systems.

The table featured here is the Modi, with their Thor linear tracking arm.
Cartridge is a modified LYRA Helikon SL, modified by Ana Mighty Sound
Phono Pre is the award winning XP-17 from Pass Labs
Cables by Cardas Audio
All on top of the Pagode Master Reference MKII, courtesy of MoFi Distribution