American Standard cover

American Standard

James Taylor · 2020

45 min · 14 tracks · country · folk rock · pop rock

A warm collection of jazz standards, delivered with James Taylor's signature smooth vocals and gentle acoustic arrangements.

Why this album works

The album received positive critical acclaim, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 chart, marking another successful entry in Taylor’s extensive discography. It highlights Taylor's ability to reinterpret timeless classics while introducing them to new audiences, demonstrating his enduring influence in the music industry.
Best for
warm, comforting listening experience gentle background ambiance short, sweet song interludes
Context
By the time 'American Standard' was released in 2020, James Taylor had established himself as a beloved figure in music, known for his introspective songwriting and soothing voice. This album followed a three-year hiatus after his last studio record, 'Before This World', and showcased Taylor's deep appreciation for classic American jazz and pop songs.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 My Blue Heaven 2:43
  • 2 Moon River Standout 3:13
  • 3 Teach Me Tonight 2:58
  • 4 As Easy as Rolling Off a Log 2:50
  • 5 Almost Like Being in Love 3:42
  • 6 Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat 4:11
  • 7 The Nearness of You 3:52
  • 8 You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught 2:26
  • 9 God Bless the Child Standout 3:21
  • 10 Pennies From Heaven 2:52
  • 11 My Heart Stood Still 3:27
  • 12 Ol’ Man River Standout 2:53
  • 13 It’s Only a Paper Moon 3:11
  • 14 The Surrey With the Fringe on Top 3:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata