In 1982, John Denver released Seasons Of The Heart, a beautiful collection of songs that exemplify his signature folk-pop sound and heartfelt songwriting. As a masterful storyteller, Denver takes music lovers on an audible journey that resonates deeply with themes of love, nature, and the human spirit. This record stands as a testament to his remarkable ability to create songs that capture the essence of the ever-changing seasons of life.
Receiving only modest success at the time of release, Seasons Of The Heart is a hidden gem within Denver’s extensive catalogue of music. Of course, sales success is a poor judgement of quality and there’s little doubt that this album was overlooked at the time as I consider it to be one of the greatest albums released in 1982. Regardless of where you would subjectively rate this release, one thing is for certain, it’s a masterpiece!
While it hasn’t been reissued, via any physical format, since the last official CD release in 1986, the Lossless Apple Digital Master is spectacular. It’s so good that while I may lament the absence of a physical reissue for Seasons Of The Heart, I can say with complete honesty that from a sonic perspective, we’re not missing anything. This is one, of many examples, whereby the stream is more than good enough and is so impressive that even if a physical release was available, I’m not sure it would warrant a purchase. Although, I adore the album artwork and would love to have that on the larger vinyl canvas.
Seasons Of The Heart is a glorious opening tune and an ideal title track. Featuring introspective lyrics and Denver's unmistakable warm vocals, Seasons Of The Heart will draw you in from the very first note as it sets the tone for the entire album.
Opposite Tables is a lovely hidden gem that not only plays into Denver’s style but incorporates nostalgic memories of the greatest recordings of yesteryear with a catchy chorus and toe-tapping rhythm that will captivate you.
Relatively Speaking has a lighter upbeat tune that is simply delightful. While all of the songs on Seasons Of The Heart are exceptional in their own right, when listening to the album’s intended sequencing, you’ll notice a cohesion that ensures the album experience is alive and well.
Dreams is simply gorgeous. The song's melody is infectious, and its lyrics resonate with the dreamer in us all. If you’re after a relaxing tune, you can’t go wrong with this one for the musical backing tells a story all by itself, sans lyrics.
Nothing But A Breeze reminds me fondly of John Fogerty and as much as I would love to hear him cover Nothing But A Breeze, Denver performs it so perfectly that even Fogerty, with his musical prowess, would be unlikely to add anything of substance to this classic country rock masterpiece.
What One Man Can Do slows the tempo for what can only be described as a beautiful ballad. It’s not only one of the best songs from the album, it is one of the greatest songs Denver ever recorded.
Shanghai Breezes continues the beautiful musical experience. If there is a criticism to be made, however, it’s that the drum rhythm has an audible crunching. It may have been intentional, but it’s ultimately distracting.
Islands is John Denver 101 with its magnificent sweeping musical backing and Denver’s otherworldly vocal presentation.
Heart To Heart is one of my favourite songs of all time. Yes, it’s corny and cliché and is very much a song of its era, but that chorus is one that I could listen to on repeat indefinitely as it’s exceptional.
Perhaps Love is the solo counterpart to the original duet with Plácido Domingo. While both versions have a place in the annals of music history, I must admit that I prefer this solo interpretation as it simply sounds right.
Children Of The Universe closes the album beautifully for Denver is once again front and centre with an introspective piece that is layered onto a lovely musical bed.
Seasons Of The Heart, ultimately, showcases John Denver's musical and emotional depth like no other album from his extensive discography. His soulful vocals, meaningful lyrics, and masterful guitar work make this album timeless; one that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.