Norah Jones’s “Come Away With Me,” released in 2002, is a critically acclaimed album known for its fusion of jazz, country, and pop elements. The album is celebrated in audiophile circles for its warm, intimate production and Jones’s smooth, sultry vocals.
Here’s a detailed audiophile review of each track, focusing on the recording quality and sonic characteristics:
Don’t Know Why
Recording Quality:
The album opens with its most famous track, featuring a gentle piano and soft percussion. The recording is intimate, capturing the subtle nuances of Jones’s voice and the delicate touch on the piano.
Highlights:
Jones’s vocals are clear and nuanced, perfectly complementing the understated instrumental arrangement.
Seven Years
Recording Quality:
A country-tinged track with a simple, clean mix. The acoustic guitar is warm, and the brushwork on the drums is captured with crisp clarity.
Highlights:
The emotional depth and purity of Jones’s vocals are particularly striking against the sparse arrangement.
Cold Cold Heart
Recording Quality:
This track showcases a richer sound, with a more prominent bass line. The recording captures the depth of the bass and the texture of the piano beautifully.
Highlights:
The soulful interpretation of this Hank Williams classic is enhanced by the warmth and clarity of the recording.
Feelin’ the Same Way
Recording Quality:
The track features a lively, upbeat tempo. The recording is dynamic, with the drums and guitar providing a solid rhythmic foundation.
Highlights:
The light, airy quality of Jones’s voice contrasts nicely with the more grounded instrumental backing.
Come Away With Me
Recording Quality:
The title track is characterized by its simple, elegant arrangement. The recording is intimate, emphasizing the gentle piano and Jones’s expressive vocals.
Highlights:
The close-miked piano and vocals create a cozy, personal atmosphere that draws the listener in.
Shoot the Moon
Recording Quality:
A slow, melancholic ballad with a spacious soundstage. The recording allows the piano and vocals to breathe, capturing the emotional resonance of the performance.
Highlights:
The subtle interplay between the piano and vocals is a testament to the album’s meticulous production.
Turn Me On
Recording Quality:
This track has a classic jazz feel, with a warm, rich sound. The recording balances the brighter tones of the piano with the deeper sounds of the bass and drums.
Highlights:
Jones’s sultry vocal delivery is particularly engaging, adding character to the jazz standard.
Lonestar
Recording Quality:
A country-inflected track, “Lonestar” features a clear, crisp recording of acoustic guitar and vocals.
Highlights:
The simplicity of the arrangement highlights Jones’s ability to convey deep emotion with her voice.
I’ve Got to See You Again
Recording Quality:
A moodier, more atmospheric track. The recording captures the subtle nuances of the percussion and the haunting quality of the piano.
Highlights:
The depth and texture of Jones’s voice are showcased against the sparse, ambient backdrop.
Painter Song
Recording Quality:
This whimsical track has a quaint, old-time feel. The recording is clean and straightforward, with the ukulele and vocals nicely balanced.
Highlights:
The playful nature of the song is captured with a lightness and clarity that adds to its charm.
One Flight Down
Recording Quality:
A track featuring a laid-back jazz arrangement. The recording is smooth, with a focus on the piano and bass interplay.
Highlights:
The relaxed, smoky atmosphere of the track is enhanced by the intimate production.
Nightingale
Recording Quality:
The song has a dreamy, reflective quality. The recording is soft and warm, perfectly capturing the tender vocals and gentle guitar.
Highlights:
The ethereal quality of Jones’s voice is front and center, creating a soothing and emotive listening experience.
The Long Day Is Over
Recording Quality:
A simple, bluesy track with a clean, uncluttered mix. The recording captures the soulful quality of the piano and the richness of Jones’s vocals.
Highlights:
The expressive piano playing and vocal performance convey a sense of weariness and relief.
The Nearness of You
Recording Quality:
Closing the album, this classic ballad is presented with a sparse, delicate arrangement. The recording is intimate, highlighting the breathy quality of Jones’s voice and the subtle piano accompaniment.
Highlights:
The track’s minimalist approach allows the emotional depth and purity of Jones’s performance to shine through.
Overall Assessment
“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones is a masterful blend of jazz, country, and pop, and from an audiophile standpoint