Album: That's the Way It Is

Introduction
That's the Way It Is, the twelfth studio album by American singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson, was launched on April 17, 1976. The album, produced by Trevor Lawrence, is a collection of 9 tracks of different designs ranging from pop, rock, country, and even calypso. It consists of both original compositions by Nilsson and covers of other artists' tunes. The album was launched under RCA Records and, in spite of its business failure, has actually acquired appreciation with time for its special sound and Nilsson's vocal performances.

Background and Recording
Harry Nilsson was a well-respected artist in the music market, known for his vocal range and songwriting abilities. He gained attention with his 1969 hit "Everybody's Talkin'", which was featured in the movie Midnight Cowboy. His partnerships with acclaimed artists, such as The Beatles' John Lennon and Ringo Starr, additional solidified his status as a musical force. Nevertheless, his post-Beatles cooperations were met with blended evaluations and disappointing sales figures.

After a series of commercially frustrating albums, Nilsson opted for a modification. He consented to record an album of cover tunes and original structures under the guidance of manufacturer Trevor Lawrence, with a concentrate on providing business hits. The recording sessions included popular musicians like guitar player Steve Cropper and keyboardist Van Dyke Parks, with heavy involvement from Lawrence who co-wrote and played on the tracks.

Track Listing and Cover Songs
That's the Way It Is includes numerous covers from well-known artists:

1. "That Is All"-- Originally by George Harrison, the opening track is an easy rock ballad that showcases Nilsson's singing expertise.
2. "Just One Look/Baby I'm Yours"-- An assortment of Doris Troy's "Just One Look" and Barbara Lewis's "Baby I'm Yours", highlighting Nilsson's capability to blend contrasting songs into one cohesive track.
3. "Moonshine Bandit"-- Co-written by Nilsson and Lawrence, the tune features calypso-styled crucial support.
4. "I Need You"-- A cover of Randy Newman's tune, providing a soulful touch to the procedures.
5. "A Thousand Miles Away"-- Originally by The Heartbeats, even more shows the range of Nilsson's musical impacts.
6. "Sail Away"-- Another Randy Newman cover, offering a blues-inspired performance of the song.
7. "She Sits Down on Me"-- An initial Nilsson composition that presents a more spirited and positive side.
8. "Daylight Has Caught Me"-- Co-written by Nilsson and Parks, the tune has a theatrical feel, similar to earlier Nilsson albums.
9. "Zombie Jamboree"-- A cover of the calypso classic by Lord Invader, flaunting Nilsson's funny bone and love for a range of designs.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, That's the Way It Is received mixed-to-negative evaluations and failed to accomplish commercial success. In spite of this, the album has acquired appreciation for many years for its eclectic song selection and varied sound, representing Nilsson's fondness for various musical designs. Fans and critics alike have kept in mind that the album works as a testimony to Nilsson's adaptability as a vocalist and an entertainer.

In retrospect, That's the Way It Is may not have gotten the commercial success it went for, however it remains a vital part of Harry Nilsson's discography. It showcases his distinct capability to deliver honest, emotional, and powerful singing performances regardless of whether he's singing his originals or covering the works of other artists. The album stands as a pointer of Nilsson's amazing skill, which, sadly, remained underrated throughout his career.