How many can you say this about: eight great albums in eight years, at least two masterpieces? One of those, 1974’s Court and Spark, is among a trio rereleased this month in expanded form. This selection, from 1968 to 1976, captures Joni at her peak, jazz- and folk-tinted melodies soaring in the major, breaking hearts in the minor, lyrics both soothing and skewering. A good half-dozen alternative Top 10s suggest themselves, and clamour for supremacy.

1 The Last Time I Saw Richard A vocal line that flits like paper in the wind; a lyric with a lethal sting.

2 Free Man in Paris David Geffen gets dipped in her caustic acidity.

3 My Old Man A celebration of domestic bliss? The tune drags this classic down darker paths.

4 Chelsea Morning An early appearance for those fluting, just-out-of-tune harmonies.

5 Marcie Rare for Mitchell, no ambiguity: a tune as melancholy as the words.

6 In France They Kiss on Main Street One of her most beguilingly serpentine melodies.

7 Songs to Aging Children Come Ever wondered what inspires Joanna Newsom?

8 The Same Situation Pondering love and fidelity on Court and Spark.

9 Blonde in the Bleachers An intriguing hybrid — lyrics bemoaning rock’n’roll men, tune off on jazz tangents.

10 Amelia Amelia Earhart inspires a devastatingly resigned soul-baring.

To listen to and buy as an exclusive Culture iMix, visit www.timesonline.co.uk/music

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