Hourglass Songs Ranked

Hourglass is singer-songwriter James Taylor’s 14th studio album and his first studio album in six years. It built upon the success of his previous effort, New Moon Shine. Hourglass was an introspective album with lyrics that focused largely on Taylor’s troubled past and family. “Jump Up Behind Me” paid tribute to his father’s rescue of him after the Flying Machine days, and the long drive from New York City back to his home in Chapel Hill. “Enough to Be On Your Way” was inspired by the alcoholism-related death of his brother Alex earlier in the decade. The themes were also inspired by Taylor’s divorce from actress Kathryn Walker, which took place in 1996. Here are all of Hourglass songs ranked.

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8. Line ’em Up

“The opener ‘Line ‘Em Up’ is an expertly-crafted mid-tempo number with its first verse referring to Richard Nixon’s final day leaving the White House in ’74; a moment of quiet and nostalgic reflection, loved it.”

7. Little More Time With You

“There’s excellent emotion an’ depth across the entire album an’ is’ certainly helped along by cameos from heavy-hitters such as Stevie Wonder, who provides a lovely harmonica line to the deceptively-light-sounding ‘Little More Time With You’ that actually tackles topics of drug us”

6. Ananas

“Songs like “Ananas” is a very catchy & sensual & it has hit written all over it. As one of the most talented of 70’s performers, Taylor has consistently turned out material that superbly showcases his enormous gifts as a singer-songwriter.”

See more: James Taylor Albums Ranked

5. Another Day

“Another Day” stands out among all of the other slow songs. Slow at the beginning, but the it picks up slightly. His voice, always appealing, has also matured with a confident, rich presence. He continues to have a knack for choosing the best of the best side men.”

4. Up From Your Life

“With Hourglass, James Taylor explores the world around us through the eyes of a deep feeling skeptic– a romantic despite his pragmatic views. The songs range from slow and soulful to wistful and upbeat and I personally enjoyed his pairings with other artists.”

See more: James Taylor Songs Ranked

3. Boatman

“I bought this CD when it was released but only recently began to really listen to the lyrics. They are truly inspired and amazing. I hear messages of hope, truth and guidance within his songs. It is absolutely my favorite CD and I hear something new each time I listen.”

2. Enough to Be on Your Way

“‘Enough to Be On Your Way’ probably ranks among his strongest and most powerful journeys, with a terrific arrangement and heart-breaking lyrical imagery. There’s excellent emotion an’ depth across the entire album.”

1. Gaia

“It is lyrically beautiful (not something easily said about so much of music today) and both easy and compelling to listen to. There is something for everyone on this album, in the different musical styles and in the stories and lessons heard in the lyrics.”