Fifth Album

iTunes Review

Judy Collins emerged in the ‘60s as one of the finest interpretative singers in any genre. Her roots were in folk music, however, she was quick to embrace modern songwriters such as Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs, and Eric Andersen and with her fifth album showcases their unusual melodic gifts, often obscured by the songwriters' gruffer delivery. Her impeccable choices are in full display. Three Dylan covers ("Tomorrow Is A Long Time," "Daddy You've Been On My Mind," "Mr, Tambourine Man") point to his obvious influence, but plenty of other notable songwriters were given their due. Richard Farina's "Pack Up Your Sorrows" became an immediate classic. Gordon Lightfoot's "Early Morning Rain" reflects its somber sentiment. Phil Ochs' "In the Heat of the Summer" actually anticipates the further turbulence of the civil rights movement. "The Coming of the Roads" is among Collins' finest performances, reflecting on the many changes  — romantic, geographical, sentimental — of the era. The traditional "Lord Gregory" and "So Early, Early In the Spring" come from her traditional folk background. Fifth Album is one of Collins' finest albums and a perfect reflection of the creative burst that occurred during the mid-‘60s.