James Taylor – JT – LP

• Format: LP
• Label: Columbia, Columbia, Columbia Records, CBS Inc., CBS Inc., CBS Inc., The Sound Factory, The Sound Factory, The Mastering Lab, The Mastering Lab, Customatrix, Country Road Music, Inc
• Catalog number: JC 34811
• Country: US

JT finds James Taylor embracing a more upbeat and polished sound while maintaining the introspective songwriting that defines his work. Produced by Peter Asher and featuring David Campbell’s viola arrangements alongside subtle percussion touches like castanets, cabasa, and even cowbell, the album moves through warm acoustic textures and thoughtful lyrics. Tracks such as “Your Smiling Face” and “Honey Don’t Leave L.A.” highlight Taylor’s ability to blend catchy melodies with a casual sophistication that invites focused listening rather than background noise. It’s an album that balances the familiar comforts of Taylor’s earlier style with a more expansive, layered approach. This 1977 vinyl pressing offers a solid way to experience JT as it was first heard in the late ’70s, with a mix by Val Garay that keeps the ensemble clear and intimate. The record’s VG+ condition means you can expect it to play well with only minor surface marks or light scuffs typical of a well-cared-for vintage disc—nothing that should distract from the music’s easy groove. If you’re looking for a pressing that feels like a genuine piece of James Taylor’s era, this copy fits the bill without fuss or frills, making it a straightforward choice for anyone drawn to his blend of acoustic songwriting and thoughtful production.