Carole's most underrated album

At 16 years old, my musical tastes are finally starting to be refined and I'm breaking away from the wasteland of today's popular music and finding interest in the music of the early founders of rock and roll. My favorite is Carole King. I don't think I have to discuss the brilliance of all the songs on "Tapestry" instead I'll share my thoughts on "Writer." This album is, by far, Ms. King's most underrated album. It includes classic ballads such as "No Easy Way Down", in which Carole finds confidnece in her voice and delivers a song that deals beautifully with the ups and downs of life and relationships. The slower version is much more evocative then Dusty Sprinfield's cover on "Dusty in Memphis." "Child of Mine" is a simple yet beautifully delivered song written for Carole's daughter, Louise. "Goin Back" is another classic which expresses a deep yearning for the simpler things in life. Much like her songs, the simpler things in life are usually the best. The standout on this album is "Up on the Roof" Never has a song captured a longing to get away from it all. Carole's delivery and superb piano playing put you on top of a New York City apt. buidling, gazing at the stars wishing all your cares away. The only drawback on this album is the almost amateurish production of John Fischbach, especially on "Spaceship Races". It sounds as if a cheap punk band were playing it in a high school gym. Now that I'm running out of space, let me close by saying that the mediocre production can't diminish the power in each of Carole's songs and the understated, yet captivating way with which she delivers each song.

Like bumping into an old friend

I borrowed this on 8 track in the 70s and I havent heard it since then. I heared "Spaceship Races" on XM radio and woah, that took me back and I had to search out for the cd. I had forgotten how good this album was.When I First heard it then I thought it was way better than"Tapestry"Carol's most commercial album.Yes hearing this cd is like bumping into an old friend and getting reaquainted all over again!!

Was her 2nd LP

Actually, in regards to the review below, Carole King had recorded an LP the year before this one, 1969, with her second husband and Danny Kortchmar, collectively calling themselves The City.