The trajectory of Carly Simon’s career changed when she met Jac Holzman. Having previously only recorded albums with her sister Lucy as The Simon Sisters, Carly would now find herself as solo artist signed to Elektra Record. Jac Holzman, at the time the head of Elektra Records, is a pioneering figure in the music industry, known for his pivotal role in the development of the folk, rock, and pop music scenes in the 1960s and beyond. Holzman’s willingness to take risks and support unconventional and innovative artists helped shape the sound of Simon’s career. Simon and Holzman became quick friends and with Holzman’s support, Simon released three icon albums in three years – Carly Simon (1971), Anticipation (1971), and No Secrets (1972). Simon says working with Holzman was one of the peaks of her career, ‘There was never more care given to me. Never more respect, and I can surely say that I would never have become a performer had it not been for that first call from Jac after listening to my first little demo cassette.’ These Are The Good Old Days: The Carly Simon and Jac Holzman Story focuses in on the unique partnership between the legendary singer-songwriter and Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman. Rhino Records is releasing this new collection of hits and deep cuts from these first three albums on CD and 2-LP formats with liner notes by music historian Ted Olson and interviews with both Simon and Holzman.
The album begins with “Anticipation,” a whimsical yet heartfelt ode to the anticipation that often precedes significant life moments. Simon’s distinct voice shines through as she captures the nervous excitement and longing in her lyrics. On “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be,” Simon’s emotive and distinctive voice immediately draws you in, and her introspective lyrics explore themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations. It’s a melancholic yet deeply relatable song that remains one of her signature tunes. One of the standout tracks on the album is the remastered version of “You’re So Vain,” which became a massive hit and remains one of Carly Simon’s most iconic songs. The song’s catchy melody, witty lyrics, and Simon’s enigmatic delivery make it an unforgettable piece of pop music history. The mystery surrounding the identity of the song’s subject has kept fans guessing for decades, adding to its enduring allure. Carly Simon’s storytelling skills are in full display on deep cuts like, “Embrace Me, You Child” and “The Carter Family” which are great examples of songs that weave intricate narratives and vivid characters into their lyrics. Simon’s ability to create a world within each song is truly remarkable. These are the Good Old Days also includes a previously unreleased demo of “Alone” from her debut album which gives this soulful and introspective piece new life. It also includes an outtake of Simon covering the iconic songwriter John Prine’s “Angel of Montgomery.” Simon’s cover gives the song a lot more grit than the famous Bonnie Raitt version and is a welcome addition to this collection.
Carly Simon’s first three albums are timeless masterpieces that have stood the test of time. They not only established her as a remarkable singer-songwriter but also demonstrated her place in music history. Simon’s depth, emotional resonance, and memorable songs continue to enchant new generations of listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Carly Simon’s music, These Are the Good Old Days: The Carly Simon and Jan Holzman Story is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling through song.
