Carly Simon's new album, "Comes in Waves," marks her first collection of original songs in nearly 20 years. The release arrives as Simon, 83, revealed her diagnosis with Parkinson's disease and a recent surgery to remove a cancerous skin growth.
The album delves into recurring themes in Simon's work, including yearning, discontent, desire, uncertainty, her past marriage to James Taylor, and the impact of her father's death in her youth. "Maybe I never loved you / But anyway, I thought I did / I married you, we had a kid," she sings on a ballad that appears to address her ex-husband, Taylor.
The lead track, "Howl," is described as a midtempo rocker urging a heartbroken friend, or perhaps the singer herself, to express their emotions. The album's mood shifts throughout, moving from defiance and regret to melancholy and a resolve to try again, with production by David Spencer, Frank Filipetti, and Ben Taylor.
"Comes in Waves" also features a remastered version of Simon's political song "Share the End." Other tracks echo moments from her earlier career, such as "Maybe I Never Loved You," which draws a parallel to the Hoagy Carmichael standard "I Get Along Without You Very Well (Except Sometimes)," and "The Father-Daughter Dance," reminiscent of her 1970s ballad "Embrace Me, You Child."
More contemporary themes are explored in songs like "Peaches," which touches on courtship, and "Mother of Pearl," a tribute to her daughter Sally Taylor. "Love the Way I Do" is presented as a celebration of life's "wild ride."
Another notable track is "Four in the Morning," originally written by the late Judy Belushi, which captures a quiet pace fitting its lyrics about a wife leaving an unhappy situation. While Simon may not consistently hit the vocal high notes of her past, the review notes she retains her skill for melody and emotional delivery.
"Comes in Waves" is rated three out of five stars, with "Love the Way I Do" and "Four in the Morning" recommended for repeat listening, while "Share the End" is suggested as a track to skip. The album is primarily recommended for long-time fans of Carly Simon and lovers of pop torch singers.