With the release of this album in 1971, John Denver delivered the songs that would soon propel him into superstardom. All the elements he then used to achieve such singular fame and fortune as the best-selling and most popular singer of the 1970s is here, from his fabulously successful first hit "Take Me Home, Country Roads" to the under- appreciated counterculture anthem "Poems, Prayers And Promises". Denver almost single-handedly began the outdoor backpacking, hiking, and orienteering movements by popularizing the idea of nature as an important element in modern life, and more than a few of the young babyboomers, like John, were more than ready for the kind of unconventional intimacy with nature he sang about so effortlessly and so elegantly. From "Sunshine On My Shoulders" to "I Guess He'd Rather Be In Colorado", Denver's song soar in their description of the beauties of the natural life and in being close to the "great wide-open'.
Denver also does an unusually good cover of "Let It Be" by Lennon and McCartney, and also serves up a later hit, "My Sweet Lady'. He really surprises with his terrific cover of "Fire And Rain", and he is the only one besides Tom Rush that I have ever heard do a good cover of a James Taylor song. Indeed, the simple and well arranged acoustic blast of infectious energy and sweet simplicity that was John Denver is here in spades, whether it be in original songs like "Country Roads" or with covers of others' work, the kid who had adopted the majesty of Colorado for his setting and his inspiration sings simply, sentimentally, and superbly about the simple pleasures and undying verities of a homespun and simple life well lived. My special favorite here is "Poems, Prayers, And Promises", and I always wondered why it was never a bigger hit for John. Hearing John sing in his youthful enthusiasm about what turns him on is still a rare treat. This one has weathered the years with all its energy and beauty intact. I love this album, and I think you will too. Enjoy.