Joni Mitchell is no stranger to the jazz world, forging alliances with the likes of Charles Mingus, Jaco Pastorius, Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter, and also incorporating elements of jazz into some of her more interesting recordings. Her new record Both Sides Now is another foray into the jazz area, though different from her prievious attempts with the records Mingus and The Hissing of Summer Lawns.

With Both Sides Now, Mitchell the stellar singer, as opposed to the brilliant song writer and capable composer, tackles smoky standards such as “At Last,” “Sometimes I’m Happy,” and “Stormy Weather” using rich pop arrangements. She is clearly trying to draw attention to her skill as a vocalist and she demonstrates a true commitment to the lyrics contained in each song. Inspiration from singers like Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Billy Eckstine are clear throughout the record.

Two of Mitchell’s own songs are also revived on Both Sides Now—“A Case of You” and the title track. The results are impressive. Mitchell reveals herself to be a mature performer, able to revive and reinvent even her own music into something appealing and attractive for the new century. Even fans of Mitchell’s earlier, less jazz-influenced records like Blue or Court and Spark will not find Both Sides Now to be an adventurous and enjoyable record well in-line with Mitchell’s commitment to making incredible music.