James Taylor

Greatest Hits was released in 1976, which is a fine thing for those who prefer his older material. While it doesn't contain the moving hit "Mocking Bird" (a duet with Carly Simon), the 12 songs available on this collection are sequenced to sound more like an amazing album, rather than an industry-pieced together compilation of successful radio hits.

As egotists go, Taylor is a talent--a gifted guitarist, a better-than-average melodist, a pithy lyricist whose feeling for Americanese is warm if corny. And his voice you can get used to--it's soulful in its way, and he can phrase. But melodies aside, he's not a star for his virtues. He's a star because he's an egotist--because he vaunts his sensitivity so expertly. So it's inevitable that this best-of should shortchange his sense of humor ("Gorilla," "Chili Dog," "Money Machine") and horror ("Knocking 'Round the Zoo," "Junkie's Lament") and preserve his disgraceful covers of "You've Got a Friend" and "How Sweet It Is." If you want "Fire and Rain," buy Sweet Baby James. At least it's a piece of history. (Grade - C)