Album: American Standard

Introduction
" American Standard", launched in 2020, is the 20th studio album from popular American singer-songwriter James Taylor. With over five decades of music to his name, Taylor's remarkable profession has actually brought forth timeless songs and numerous honors. In "American Standard", Taylor picks to bring his unique style and warm baritone voice to a collection of classics from the Great American Songbook, reinterpreting them with his unique acoustic guitar arrangements.

Tracklist and Notable Songs
" American Standard" functions 14 tracks, with Taylor providing a mix of popular tunes and lower heard gems. Some of the standout tunes on the album include:

1. "My Blue Heaven": Opening the album with a timeless made up by Walter Donaldson and George Whiting in 1928, Taylor's variation takes a mild, acoustic technique, showcasing his complex fingerstyle technique.

2. "Moon River": This stunning rendition of the Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer traditional from "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961) highlights Taylor's soothing voice and the delicate plan of guitar, harmonica, and strings.

3. "Teach Me Tonight": Originally recorded by Dinah Washington in 1954, Taylor takes the Sammy Cahn and Gene de Paul-penned tune to melodic heights with his emotional vocals and jazz-infused guitar chords.

4. "Almost Like Being in Love": A tune from the 1947 Broadway musical, "Brigadoon", this romantic tune enables Taylor's tender voice to shine over a lavish arrangement of strings and woodwinds.

5. "God Bless the Child": Billie Holiday's iconic tune is provided a sincere remodeling by Taylor, whose acoustic guitar lines and deep singing tones express the ageless message of the song.

6. "Pennies from Heaven": Another jazz standard, originally sung by Bing Crosby in 1936, Taylor's variation uses a warm and whimsical take on the classic that harkens back to a different age.

Production and Collaborators
"American Standard" was produced by the well-known Dave O'Donnell, who has actually worked together with Taylor on previous albums like "Before This World" and "October Road". Together with O'Donnell, a host of talented musicians contributed to the record, providing harmonic and important support to Taylor's arrangements. Significant partners include long time associate Larry Goldings on keyboards, Stuart Duncan on violin, Walt Fowler on trumpet, and Lou Marini on numerous woodwinds.

Reception and Accolades
"American Standard" has been favored by critics and fans alike, applauding Taylor's thoughtful and emotive analyses of these timeless songs, as well as the superior musicianship that accompanies each track. The album peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, becoming Taylor's 13th Top 10 album in the U.S

. In acknowledgment of his work on "American Standard", Taylor made a Grammy Award election for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards. The nomination even more strengthens his status as one of America's most long-lasting and cherished singer-songwriters.

Conclusion
"American Standard" sees James Taylor admiring the classic songs that have actually played an essential function in America's abundant musical history. By adding his signature touch, Taylor creates a genuine and intimate experience for listeners, welcoming them to find or reconnect with these ageless tunes. Whether you're a veteran fan of James Taylor or a first-time listener, "American Standard" is a lovely collection that showcases his undeniable ability and enthusiasm for the enduring art of music.