Baptism: A Journey Through Our Time cover

Baptism: A Journey Through Our Time

Joan Baez · 1968

40 min · 23 tracks · country · folk · traditional folk music

A contemplative blend of folk traditions and poetic reflections on war, love, and loss delivered through Baez's haunting vocals.

Why this album works

'Baptism' is significant for its artistic ambition; it represents Baez's transition into more experimental territory, melding traditional folk with modern poetic texts. The album received positive critical reception and reinforced Baez's role as a voice of protest during a time of cultural upheaval, influencing subsequent generations of folk artists who sought to intertwine social commentary with musical expression.
Best for
wave-like pacing with interludes contemplative reflections on love haunting vocals for quiet moments
Context
Released in 1968, 'Baptism: A Journey Through Our Time' was Joan Baez's follow-up to her critically acclaimed album 'Any Day Now'. This album emerged during a period when Baez was deeply engaged with social justice movements, particularly the anti-war activism that characterized the late 1960s. It showcases her commitment to blending music with profound literary and political themes.
Stylistic neighbors
John Denver· Suzy Bogguss· June Carter Cash

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Old Welsh Song 1:16
  • 2 I Saw the Vision of Armies 1:16
  • 3 Minister of War 1:10
  • 4 Song in the Blood Standout 4:27
  • 5 Casida of the Lament 1:03
  • 6 Of the Dark Past (Ecce Peur) 1:59
  • 7 London 1:19
  • 8 In Guernica 1:00
  • 9 Who Murdered the Minutes 3:20
  • 10 Oh, Little Child 1:25
  • 11 No Man Is an Island Standout 0:56
  • 12 From Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man 2:13
  • 13 All the Pretty Little Horses 1:14
  • 14 Childhood III 1:08
  • 15 The Magic Wood 2:27
  • 16 Poems From the Japanese 2:21
  • 17 Colours 1:13
  • 18 All in Green Went My Love Riding 3:24
  • 19 Gacela of the Dark Death 2:09
  • 20 The Parable of the Old Man and the Young Man 0:50
  • 21 Evil 1:31
  • 22 Epitaph for a Poet Standout 1:15
  • 23 Old Welsh Song 1:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata