River: The Joni Letters (with Bonus Tracks) - Amazon.com Exclusive

A sound abreast of a heart of ZEN is calm and is beautiful.
It seems to be able to totally take in streamflow in the heart.

Two geniuses converge, Joni's music and lyrics interpreted by Herbie's avant garde jazz arrangements. Although not a perfect CD the music is captivating! The vocals here are performed by artists of the highest caliber. The jazz instrumental arrangements are quiet and progressive performed by the very best jazz musicians in the world. Don't pass this music by! If this were an vinyl LP I would have worn it out by now. 'River: The Joni Letters' is the 2007 Grammy-winning album by Herbie Hancock. Who cares about awards? I only care about content! Highly recommended.

After listening I'm truly amazed this record was voted album of the year, not because it's not deserving, but because it's a legit jazz record. Great performances by some of the worlds best jazz musicians of masterworks by one of the true treasures of her generation, Joni Mitchell.

I'm a professional musician. Along with Tom Scott, I started the group L.A Express in the 70's and performed on Joni Mitchell's albums, Court & Spark, Miles of Aisles, etc. This CD which won the Grammy album of the year is not worth buying. The musical wanderings of Herbie and the almost unrecognizable songs of Joni's are an exercise in musical futility. Herbie needs a tinkle-ectomy and most of the vocalists are totally underwhelming. Obviously, this was a politically motivated choice by NARAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Max Bennett, bassist and composer.

This is one of Herbie's best. He was an old college mate of mine. I was housed over the conservatory and would hear him practice his music endlessly. It is Great!!

Barbara Calloway