Pearl

more enjoyable than i expected

You can’t argue with a bit of Janis. Some good songs on it (hello soundtrack of look who’s talking), and you can’t deny she’s bloody talented.

I thought i’d like this more than I did, and I totally get why people adore it, but it’s not quite my thing!

Soulful

The repeated "c'mon" in Cry Baby made me think of the film 'C'mon C'mon' which was a nice association. Love the solo in Buried Alive in the Blues (title describes my nightmare though haha) Loved hearing Mercedes Benz here - had only heard it covered. Great song, and love the talking intro. Obsessed with her 'everybody join in!' invitation and no voices coming in. Enjoyable listen? Clearly very good stuff; not my style of music so wouldn't be revisiting though.

I absolutely love this album! Always have and always will.

Ooh okay I'm interested. Oh bangers. Shame Cry Baby has been fucked by being in that advert. Happen I could listen to it enough to undo that maybe bc it goes hardddd. Damn this is good huh. Should I be on heroin. Couple of songs that I didn't love but I get it.

Very pleasantly surprised

I was underwhelmed to be honest, I expected to really enjoy this album and looked forward to it, but overall it was good.

So so so good. Janis is one of my favorite voices. Had to listen to this one three times in a row. 10/10

A pale mimicry of established blues and soul forms, this regressive and backwards-looking record has little new to offer, especially in the context of the revolutionary transformations that were happening to soul and R&B at the start of the 1970's.

Truly have never really listened to much of Janis. I do know how much of a legend she is in her own right. Some good music right here.

Her voice is so good and the melodies are so catchy

This one has been in my collection for a long time and gets regular spins. This (along with Cheap Thrills with Big Brother and the Holding Company) is the Joplin album to own in my opinion. Me and Bobby Mc Gee and Cry Baby hit like a sledgehammer and you can just feel that she is putting it all out there. Mercedes Benz is Janis at her cheeky best and the whole album just resonates joy rage and pain. Love it

Janis really does have an incredible voice. However, the songwriting is lacking somewhat in my opinion on this album (with the notable exception of me and Bobby McGee).

3.6 Great vocals, great band, maybe both are a bit over the top at times. Note for me to check out Festival Express

Good Album, iconic voice

Not my favorite, but I understand why other people like it. I enjoyed a couple of the songs.

Before: I don’t know as much Janis Joplin as I should! Me and Bobby MeGee is the only one on this record that I’m familiar with. Excited to get going; Janis is iconic and very influential. Standout tracks: Cry Baby Me and Bobby McGee Weakest tracks: Half Moon Standout lyrics: “And when you try to walk around the world, babe, you said you’d try to find the end of the road. You might find out later that the road’ll end in Detroit. Honey, the road will even end in Kathmandu.” - Cry Baby During/after: God, the sentiment of Move Over is such a universal female experience, lol. As much as I love songs about yearning, it’s nice to hear one about a woman who is actually laying down the law. These men ain’t shit really and truly, girl. She has a very unique and gravelly voice, especially for a woman. The mixing on this track sucks and there wasn’t a whole lot that really stuck out aside from the theme, so overall it’s fine. The belting at the beginning of Cry Baby was powerful and was a solid transition from the previous track. I’m appreciating the continuing “girl power” theme. Joplin’s vocal versatility is highlighted there as well through the seamless and impressive switches from loud, chaotic belting to quieter vibrato-filled singing. During the bridge there is a candid spoken-word quality to the vocals as well. The dynamic backing instrumentation with complex piano, guitar, and organ riffs added to the epic wall of sound that is this track. I liked this one a LOT. Also, DETROIT MENTIONED <3. A Woman Left Lonely was a nice reprieve from the in-your-face-ness of Cry Baby while maintaining the consistent theme and highlighting Joplin’s soulful and powerful vocals. There are more twinkly organs and some jazzy percussion that adds a lot to this song as well. The mixing sounds a lot better than it did on the first track as well. OKAY Half Moon is FUNKY. And maybe my mind is in the gutter here but lyrically….. Nvm. This track is fun with very exaggerated instrumentals. It’s not one that I think I’ll return to a ton because it was just *a lot* for my sensitive lil ears, but it stood out because it was so different. The next track, Buried Alive In the Blues, is a driving instrumental track full of loud, interesting organ and powerful rock guitar. The mixing wasn’t great; the percussion seemed very overpowering. My Baby wasn’t my favorite song on this album at all, but I love the guitar solo halfway through. I’m almost picking up on some gospel or Motown in this song too - I’m not sure if it’s the way that the backing vocals sound or if it’s something else, but there was absolutely some gospel influence that made this track stand out a bit in a way that some of the others didn’t. It’s interesting that Me and Bobby McGee is the most streamed song on this album because it’s so different from the rest. Maybe because (so far) it’s the tamest and easiest to listen to, so it appeals to a wider audience? The beginning was gentle without as much belting. This song had themes of longing and nostalgia without being whiny at all too, which is impressive when it’s done well. Unfortunately, this song would be a favorite of mine IF it didn’t have that “la-da-da” part throughout the middle and end, and instead stuck to more storytelling. The first half was great, the second half was just kind of grating and disappointing. Mercedes Benz is super short and starts out with Joplin announcing in spoken word that she’s going to be singing a song of “great social and political import” - I’m always a fan of a candid intro or outro like this one. But Janis girl… I don’t think this song is as deep or as much of a statement as you think it is. We all want a Mercedes, but there’s not a whole lot of analysis or relevant cultural components. On an album filled with loud and pervasive instrumentals, I liked the inclusion of an a capella track. It really highlighted the uniqueness of Joplin’s voice. This one felt a little more country and twangy - I liked it! Trust Me was similar to most of the other songs on this album with strong vocals and instrumentals. This was one that didn’t stick out a ton but still pretty good. The next track, Get It While You Can blends with the last song and much of the rest of this record, but again, it’s still good. I appreciated the guitar solo here - I’m finding that the guitar solos throughout this record have catchy and anthemic sounding melodies which I like. It represented the record pretty well and was a fitting ending to the record, though I wasn’t terribly impressed or wowed by it. I liked this album a lot overall! It was short but sweet, and I am a fan of the messaging and theme throughout as it felt very “girl power.” Joplin has a very unique and adaptable voice and her vocals were the star of the show here in my opinion. However, I would almost argue that the second star was actually the organ. I feel like I don’t often hear organ like this on loud rock songs and it’s done VERY well here. This is quintessential “women in rock” and lots of times I picked up on lots of similarities in sound to Led Zeppelin which is fine because I really like Led Zeppelin. Led Zeppelin and Janis Joplin are contemporaries and I wonder how much they inspired each other. My main complaints are that a lot of the songs sounded very similar - good, but similar. The lyricism left quite a bit to be desired as well. Just… not very good lol. Overall though, I was a fan! 4/5.

Beaucoup de "hits" que je connais depuis ma "phase Janis Joplin" au secondaire. Quelques uns de nouveaux pour moi: My Baby, Buried Alive in the Blues

Now we"re talking! She comes right through the speakers and grabs you.

She can sing for sure. Not something I would seek out though

Hot damn Janis. Where has this album been all my life? Just beltin' it.

high energy and emotional blues-influenced soul that was Joplin's second solo album and final studio album really showcases her emotional vocal range over tracks that encapsulate her generational voice. Working with Paul Rothchild (The Doors, etc.) helped create a polished album that was incredibly impactful in highlighting her soaring tones.

Not completely unlistenable but borderline

Nothing here is memorable to me among these jammy jams…got to the point where I was straight up annoyed by the noodling/posturing and didn’t want to finish, hence the 1. Sorry, Janis 🤷🏼‍♀️

Shouty

Varied and interesting

Didn’t grab me

Good bluesy rock

Also nostalgic in that I heard most of these tracks during my childhood. Janis rocks. Can be a little grating at times when I’m not in the mood.

I think I'm going 5 on this one. Probably actually more like 4.5 for me. But I'm a sucker for late 60's hippie music. Joplin is the embodiment of that age. Such a vibe.

She has a great voice and some really good songs. Some of them were boring tho so can’t give it 4 stars. Me and Bobby McGee slaps

Grew up listening to this album. Janice is amazing!!

Love this album

A true classic, gone way too soon

Hell yeah. Janis is one of the greatest to ever do it. Some have the voice, some have the soul, but only rarely does someone have so much of both. And to complete the trifecta, Pearl is a fantastic, well produced record. High 4 / low 5.

Solid

What an amazing voice, so strong and forceful but with nuance and soul and a crackle. The band is great and she is great and the album is great. For me, her version of Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby McGee" is the star here. I normally shy away from the big hit and the obvious but she puts everything in to this one and it slays. What a triumph.

I mean it's fucking Janis Joplin. How can you not like?

wyld

Fands echt lame aber Merceds Benz ist funny und Me and Bobby McGee ist auch echt gut Liebling: Me and Bobby McGee Schlechtester: My Baby Ne hab meine Meinung beim nochmal hören geändert ist echt in Ordnung

Just not for me

A couple of standouts, but most of this was just okay.

I loved this album. I wasn't super familiar with many of Joplins songs, and holy moly this album was beautiful and soulful and an excellent vibe. Closer to a 4.5 for me

Pure heart and soul channelled through contemporary blues. 9.8/10 Best Tracks: "Move Over" "Cry Baby" "Half Moon" "My Baby" "Me and Bobby McGee"

Finally some songs I recognise bits and pieces of! Some nice belting, enjoyable enough but not enough that I'd seek it out again.

Not sure why I have never heard this album. Something about the image, the “legend” that has always steered me away, the cover shouts stay away to me. And clips on tv were always her at full scream. that she is a blues howler, be it a very good one. And listening today, I understand why people love it and her voice I really do, a couple of songs in and was thinking this is easy 4 or even 5 star, But it just got old real quick, it’s not for me, and I know I’m in the minority but always preferred Kris K. non singing own version of Me and Bobby... where im on the road with him rather than Janis, she is like an actor that chewing the scenery on a stage version of it, which is funny cause he was the better actor and she is probably singing from her soul, oh well ears hey ..3 Star

solid listen, what a voice, great tunes

no

Cry Baby! Jes Jappelin.

I've been a huge fan of 60s and 70s music most of my life but have a few albums I've embarrassingly missed out on. This was one of them. Really enjoyed it.

I liked the blues stuff

Janis Joplin has an incredible voice and that was clear here. I didnt like this as much as the big brother album which was much more raw and rocky. I think I was put off a bit by how much of this album I'd heard before on adverts. Great voice, okay but overplayed songs. 2.5.

Lovely voice, listened to the album a couple of times. Move Over, Cry Baby, and My Baby were my favourites. Slightly overplayed - I can hear karaoke versions of Cry Baby resonating in my head from a few nights out round local pubs in Liverpool. Still, a wonderful listen, intriguing and complex album. Died a bit too young.

She has a great voice and is very believable. It's not quite my thing but I still did enjoy it. Think I enjoyed the big brother and the holding company album more though. Still 3

An amazing album that proves to me that some classic rock albums ARE deserving of their praise. Some songs are clearly a 10/10, but in its entirity I think a strooong 4 is right for my taste

it's just not for me

move over- 6 cry baby- 7. goddamn a woman left lonely- 6 half moon- 6 buried alive in the blues- 5 my baby- 5 me and bobby mcgee- 5 mercedes benz- 5 trust me- 5 get it while you can- 5

Raspig bluessang. Man kan høre at hon var en legende men også rusmisbruker.

Imagine seeing this woman live. Even recordings are incredible.

I really should love Janis Joplin, but I don't. I love her voice, I love her social justice issues and I love her lyrics. But I just don't like her and I don't know why. Sorry, Janice.

Incredible voice really great album. Not sure I would listen to it casually though

This is everything you know and expect when you think of Janis Joplin.

Pearl isn’t just Janis Joplin’s best album—it feels like everything she was building toward finally came together. There’s raw power, yes, but also a sense of clarity and control she didn’t always have on earlier records. Her voice is ferocious and vulnerable in equal measure, full of cracks, growls, and aching soul, and on songs like Cry Baby, A Woman Left Lonely, and Me and Bobby McGee, she tears right through you. Each track feels lived-in, emotionally charged, and completely her. The production is tighter, the arrangements are richer, and the band—Full Tilt Boogie—gives her just the right platform without ever overshadowing her. Even the fun, loose moments (Move Over, Mercedes Benz) have that unmistakable Janis grit and charm. It’s a tragic triumph in some ways, released just after her death, but it’s also a lasting reminder of her brilliance.

Hail Janis. One of the most unique vocalists of all time, her voice paired with fun, bluesey, and emotional songwriting makes for immersive and fulfilling listening. Not particularly obsessed with this album, but was my first time actually listening thru one of her albums and really enjoyed. Fav track: Me and Bobby McGee

fine 3/5

4.5

Wow. Great album! I'd heard a few songs from this one but wow. Great to hear it all together.

She has crazy good vocals.

Although this is my first listen to this album (actually that’s the case for 95% of these albums), I am familiar with many of the tracks. Very good album overall, nothing fancy - just classic rock.

I had never seen a picture of Janis Joplin before. She looks very different than she sounds! This is not necessarily my style of music, but it's the least boring album we've had in a while, and I like her distinctive voice. I may or may not mix her up with Janis Ian (less tragic) or Janice the Muppet (felt).

Songs: Me and Bobby McGee, Cry Baby

Really enjoyed this album, it has some great tracks on it

Great album!

What a voice! What a band! I hadn't listened to Janis Joplin records before this one, but this record is a lot of fun and has some real soul and groove to it.

Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz? My friends all drive Porsches, I must make amends

Oh lord that's good 💯

I've heard Janis's music sparingly, but have never sat and listened to an album of hers. Obviously, she has some pipes, but the songwriting is great too. Solid listen, would probably pick up a copy if I came across one.

Wow. This was fantastic. I dont know how it took me this long to listen to Janis Joplin.

Move Over - 4/5 Cry Baby - 5/5 A Woman Left Lonely - 4/5 Half Moon - 4/5 Buried Alive In the Blues - 3/5 My Baby - 3/5 Me and Bobby McGee - 5/5 Mercedes Benz - 3/5 Trust Me- 4/5 Get It While You Can - 5/5 Average score: 4.1/5 don't think i can say anything about Janis Joplin that hasn't been said by others. this woman had some pipes

I enjoyed this but in a way I can understand how other music came from this. First half is way better than the second half

I was already really enjoying this album (and was likely to give it a five), when Mercedes Benz came on and unlocked a core childhood memory. I had forgotten about it for 25 years, but my mum used to sing Mercedes Benz to me to try and get me to sleep when I was very young, (I can only assume she had already tried all the more traditional lullabies). I played the song for her to confirm and she recognised it instantly. I’ve now been playing this album all weekend. Mercedes Benz aside, it was always going to be five stars.

Love u Janis!

Great voice and obviously a fuckin canadian legend

Live fast, die young and leave a cracking album

A great album. Never listened to it apart from the hits. Exactly what I hope to find by going through this list.

Great album

her vocals are the thing saving this album but it’s definitely a bit front loaded and gets a bit boring at the end but it’s not bad at all

Everyone sure did love some rollicking piano/organ during this time.

Damn..hoped to give Janis more stars...

Energetic record from an iconic voice.

i think i can see how good was it in the 70s. I can imagine some of the songs used in movies as iconic songs for some scenes (maybe wild west scenes or something) as an iconic touch to the movie or the game. Oh maybe the show Fallout. well, not for me

i hate everything about this....literally can't get myself to get through it sry.

I liked this quite a lot, especially musically. And while it is undeniable that she has an awesome voice, it unfortunately did not always click with me and the raspiness was a bit overwhelming at times. Still, there were more than enough great moments to make this a 4/5. Favourite songs: Me and Bobby McGee, Get It While You Can

I feel like I actually haven't had so much fun listening to a psychadelic rock album. It's just so playful and I love that about it, especially compared to how there's so much psych rock out there that just takes itself so seriously, this is nice amd refreshing.

Favorite Track: Me and Bobby McGee

Listened to almost the full album before discovering radiooooo app

I can see why boomers love her, but not my cup of tea.

Sorry queen Janis. did not love.

I have zero feelings on this album

Ye pretty good. Pretty clear where Robert Plant got a lot of his singing style. Organ sounded something out of a pokemon game

Pretty good vibes, reckon Robert plant would be a fan

What a legend. Janis has soul, texture, power. Total package. Always adds extra layers when it's an artist's last go. Especially since the album came out after her death. Feels like a goodbye or memoriam. Love you Janis ❤️

Wish we had gotten more from Joplin, but grateful for this all the same

What a voice! 🔥 I only knew 2 Janis Joplin songs before going into this. Ended up recognising a 3rd thanks to a highly annoying perfume advert. That does not do her justice because this album was amazing! Such a talent, died way too young. Reminds me of Amy Winehouse - unique voices and I think both would have gone on to incredible things This is in my top 3 albums on here so far. Loved it 5 ⭐️

Great stuff here! Even the kind of shouty bits are very listenable. Top-notch stuff from Janis.

Didn't expect this, but I genuinely loved this.

eu amo, nao tem como

любимка оч класно но не все ставлю 4

A pearl indeed. The vocal quality on this is absolutely beyond almost anything else. I actually think it would be nice if the vocals took slightly more centre stage than they do, but it was such a warm bath of an album to bathe in, and had a kind of aching quality to it.

Noen gode tracks. Særlig Bobby McGee (country - selvfølgelig). Generelt litt mye skriking og skrål for min smak.

Your mom loves this record.

Very good blues album, it seems interesting that it’s a Joplin album when most of the songs were written by others and other than one guitar track all music is handled by a backing band.

Janis Joplin, for me, is a prime example of a supremely talented artist that does literally nothing for me. Clearly an incredible voice, but in a style and wedded to music that I couldn’t wait to stop listening to. Sorry Janis, I wish your life could have been an easier one.

Not really a big blues rock person, but I have to say, did Janis Joplin ever have some chops. I liked this more than I thought I would. The backing band is energetic, and they get some real grooves going on at some parts. And Joplin's free-spirited personality shines through. There's a tinge of sadness, knowing this was posthumous. Fav tracks: Cry Baby, Half Moon, Mercedes Benz

The voice that made a million white women buy a pair of leather pants and join a bar band to scream Janis Joplin and Led Zeppelin songs (and Alana Myles' "Black Velvet") at patrons who are either enraptured or bored to tears by it. I am almost always in the latter group. That said, Janis was herself unique and original. "Pearl" is an easy choice for this list.

Wall to wall bangers.

Powerful performance!

Wonderful album by one of the greatest pop/rock performers of all time.

Really fun album. She has such an expressive voice, and the band was energetic.

Not much to say about this. It is a solid 5/5.

One of the most powerful female singers of all time. She deserved so much more than the way she was treated. It’s a shame she died before she had a chance to be embraced by the right people.

Great album

The first few songs are great, but then you get tired of Janis' emotional vocals, so it's a stretch to say only 7 out of 10.

Cry Baby. So good.

Classic Janis!

Very soulful. I wasn’t really paying attention but not my favorite.

A great listen. Was blown away by the power and raw soul of Janis's voice. Such a shame this turned out to be her last album

Really enjoyed this album as it captures the raw power of Joplins voice. It is quite poignant that the instrumental track was left as it was because Joplin had died before she was able to record vocals. A tragic loss. 5 stars.

2 sterne

Fun, energetic, passionate blues rock. Just how I like it, but nothing groundbreaking... And Mercedes Benz is also there, I guess...

I liked Pearl

3.5

Freedoms just another word

Nice I liked it more than I thought I would. Also it clocks in at just over half an hour which seems right for how strong the sound is

20% banger

I never realized how bluesy, rocky, and just plain fun Janis Joplin was. It's a shame she's part of the 27 Club. Favorite Track: "Move Over".

Standouts: • Cry Baby • Buried Alive In The Blues • Me and Bobby McGee • Mercedes Benz • Get It While You Can

I listened to this one twice, better the second time through cause I was paying more attention. Great lyrics, and you know the sound you are going to get, but too many iconic songs not to give a top rating.

Some good rock and roll. Nothing in particular really stood out to me.

bloody love it.

Nice album. Very upbeat most of it. Never really listened to Janice - stand out song - Half moon

Quite enjoyable. I thought I'd get tired of her voice but it wasn't the case. And the instrumentals were great. Good dynamics, solos, etc... I'd listen again

First time I’ve heard a full album and it was terrific.

4.5

Sensazionale

A high 3, I did like it

Great album, the vibes reminded me of when my parents would take me to gatherings with family friends and they would listen to that kind of music. This was a nice album to have in the background, the only song missing was Piece of My Heart but it's okay, it was still great.

Very familiar with this album - Some great vocal performances on this

This is classic blues singing. Janis puts so much emotion into her words. This is definitely an album we all should hear before we die. 4/5

I've never listened to much Janis other than a few popular ones but I really enjoyed this.

she goes

She is the queen of rock.

Not something I want to listen to every day, but it feels wrong not to give it 5 stars.

This was my first venture into Janis Joplin's work and I thoroughly enjoyed it! She has such a powerful voice and she is clearly very in-sync with her band on this one. The recording sessions (leading up to her tragic and untimely death) must have been an absolute joy.

Janis at her very best. Just one of the best to ever do it.

god her voice and the guitar ... what a combo!! I can't believe I have never listened to this before

Great voice

neato, some cool songs, heard of janis joplin but didnt know she was kinda soul-y

Good songs and performance

Great Artist, but her voice gets annoying pretty quickly

There's a little comment chain on the RYM comments for this album saying "it's weird that the further you get into music the less you hear about her" which is weirdly true despite how much of an "icon" she is otherwise for mainstream audiences as another 27 Club victim, she's viewed almost as a logo instead of an artist or a person really which is sad because, while I'm not the biggest fan of this album (I care more for the A side than the B side), she is still an incredibly strong voice that managed to merge all these psychedelic and blues and somewhat gospel sounds into one pretty nice 33 mins, there's even funk in two of these songs which really took me by surprise! But even those songs having a little new sound thrown in just makes you wonder if she would have done more of that or what would have been another album, and another, and another and maybe she wouldn't be so forgotten in the annals of music history among nerds discussing who is the 70s GOAT or the mainstream not just remembering her as this cute 70s icon. I think if nothing else it's just a sweet short listen that can do if I feel like having something more blues rock-y (and I'll take it over others I've heard)

I mean, it's fuggin' JJ. Just amazing voice. Quintessential early 70s RnB

Overplayed and overhyped, but goddamm what a singular voice, and the production is killer.

This is a really good album. Her voice is really great as expected. I think overall I preferred Cheap Thrills to this. Favorite songs were Cry Baby, Half Moon, Me And Bobby McGee, and Trust Me

I love her, but not that much for a full album that doesn't sound coherent. Sorry Janis!

iconic.

Highs and Lows. Some songs needed skipping, others fantastic.

Janis killed it here. Her voice was powerful and emotionally raw in every single song. I don’t think this album would’ve been as good without her voice(and I also don’t think many people can sound as good as she does with this type of singing either). Also the instrumental aspects to these songs were amazing and so early 1970’s, loved it.

I’ve listened to Me and Bobby McGee before (thank you Kris Kristoffersson for that gem) and really enjoyed Janis’s voice on that one. That feeling can be shared to the rest of the songs on this album, she has such a powerful and raw voice with great lyrics and rock elements on all of the songs. Cry Baby is so raw and you can feel the emotion pouring out in her voice, Trust Me as well. What a sad story that this had to be released post humorously. It makes sense that this exalted her even further as this was one of the most complete albums I’ve listened to in this challenge with the vocals, lyrics, rock and blues elements, passion and raw talent. Truly a tragedy we didn’t get more music from her.

Honestly not that keen on her singing on some tracks. Didn't really like Mercedes Benz at all. Better on others like My Baby Instrumentation is usually cool. Psychedelic and tight, sometimes crunchy. The piano refrain on Half Moon weirdly reminds me of something yous hear in an 80s city pop tune. Little things like that are what grabbed my attention A decent album but not really my thing, mostly due to the vocals Highlights: Buried Alive in the Blues, Half Moon

Not my style but appreciate the artist.

Her singing can be a bit much. Maybe you need a certain mood.

I actually like the Big Brother one with the Crumb cover more, but maybe that's cause I grew up with it. This is still a really good album, the songs just don't move me the same. But she's brilliant.

Not a fan of the genre or the voice.

May as well be a picture of Janis Joplin next to “aura” in the dictionary

I thought this album was a lot of fun. Great guitars. Janis is a great singer. Nothing is particular stood out to me, but I had a good time listening to it. Maybe if anything, I liked My Baby. I also thought Mercedes Benz was a fun track to throw in. 3.5/5

Rougher than I imagined. Enjoyed it though.

Very rubbish

I've always liked Joplin's voice and the accompanying music. The album started to replay, and I let it.

Very good if a little dated, still a great voice to listen to.

Had never heard the whole album. It was every bit as good as I hoped it would be. Wonderful musicianship, too! New faves: Half Moon, Buried Alive in the Blues, A Woman Left Lonely

That voice. That soul. I'm pretty familiar with this album, but it never fails to give me goosebumps at several points. Me and Bobby McGee is the greatest cover version ever (fight me!), and Cry Baby is up there with the great vocal performances, but every other track is great too. Top musicianship too, although Joplin always takes center stage. It doesn't matter to me that she didn't write most of these songs, because she makes them all her own

Incredible. Brilliant. Stunning album.

Chills. Damn. First album on this list I haven't heard before that is getting 5 stars. Can't wait to relisten

nice sound, i love her voice

Hell of a singer Hell of a set of songs

It's a decent mixture of blues, soul and rock with Janis Joplin on top form vocally.

Yes what a screamer, obvs knew alot of the songs but not the totality.musical and poetic mastery with a touch if country soul and the hippie thing. Was awesome really.

Liked this a lot more than I thought I would, definitely an unexpected treat

Really quite enjoyable.

Fantastic album, Joplin is a vocal powerhouse!

Psychedelic blues with some fun writing and beautiful signing …. Enjoyed this a lot … the instrumental work is really fun it shines though in the buried alive , Mercedes Benz is one of the most unique standout songs ( I wonder how that would be received today ) and me and bobby mcgee brings them together perfectly I seem to have a soft spot for early 70s rock

Such an amazing voice! Very good album

The vocals weren't entirely my thing but overall an okay album.

Attractive songs with a very attractive singing style, nice instrumentals, with a playful moment on in. Unsure if I want to put it on repeat, tho. But I think 4/5 is very fair for this one.

4.5

First listen - I can’t believe I have to admit it. But holy crap- worth the hype!

My absolute favorite Janis album.. Her last two albums are bleedin' masterpieces... I have Kozmic Blues at 4½ as well (9.6) ★★★★½

Hate her wailing voice. Okay in other respects. Low 3 stars

I've never been super high on Janis. I think she's got a cool voice, but in terms of the music she put out in her lifetime, it's never really blown me away. I do think there's some good stuff here -- "Cry Baby", "Me & Bobby McGee", "Get it While You Can", but there's some lesser stuff in the middle of the album. 3.5 stars.

Very good album. Basically up to the level of Cheap Thrills with iconic tracks such as Me And Bobby McGee and Mercedes Benz to fit alongside Piece Of My Heart. A few more albums like this and she would have had a quite impressive pearl necklace.

just cant

Good grit. 4.

Personal enjoyment: 5/5 Relevance to this list: 5/5

Love it, from start to finish

one of the greatest voices of all time excellent blues/rock album I bought this on cassette for $5 in Sydney when I lived there, and only had a Walkman

What a voice goddamn

I like this album a lot, great voice. In too much of an uninspired mood to say more ;)

Marge Simpson sings. Good album, Cry Baby is nostalgic. Didnt know Janice Joplin did the Merc advert, banger. Get it while you can has a great intro

Ein zeitloses Album. Die Band und Janis Joplin sind eine Einheit.

Reminds me of any college/university girl that thinks they can sing but can’t

84/100.

This album is such a bop throughout. Mercedez Benz made me laugh tbh. I feel like not enough albums do that.

I’ve heard about Ms. Joplin my entire life and this is my first time ever listening to her. The soul in her voice JUMPED out the records, my goodness, I want expecting that whatsoever.

Classic, her voice sends chills and is unmistakable

favorite songs: move over, cry baby, half moon, buried alive in the blues, me and bobby mcgee, mercedes benz

👍🏼

Haven’t heard of this album or the artist before. This is what makes doing this project worth it. Favorite track: Me and Bobby Mcgee other picks: buried alive in blues, mercedes benz, cry baby

Had this on 8 track in my car in high school. A few years later when I went over to my girlfriend's (now wife's) house she excused herself to go to the bathroom and change clothes. I saw a Peaches crate of albums and thumbed through them while left alone, and this album was near the front. I think you can learn a lot about a woman by figuring out what sort of music she listens to. :-)

Awesome album, Janis's vocals are just on another level and really pull you into every song.

Better than the previous one

Pretty good

3.05

i kind of liked the grooviness at first but i did think i tired of it a bit in the second half (e.g. songs like mercedes benz). in general the vocalism is pretty fab and the band isn't half bad either - e.g. in half moon. i guess i would say 3.5

Ok I'm gonna need to stop you right there. You mean to tell me that Janis Joplin died at what I can only assume was the peak of her recording career? Because I cannot imagine her producing a better record than this one. Oh my goodness. I honestly don't even know how to put into words how I feel about this record. It has everything I love - fast, upbeat grooves played by an excellent rock and roll/soul band. Motown vibes. Soul. Amazing instrumentation and mixing. And on top of all of that (which would be enough for four stars for most albums with all of that), it's got Janis on vocals absolutely blowing everyone out of the water. I don't even care that there's a filler track on this album ("Mercedes Benz"). It's charming enough that I can let it slide. I am such a sucker for an album like this. There have been albums that have felt like they were made for me that I just didn't like. Albums I felt like, because they checked a handful of boxes that generally agree with my musical tastes, had to be a five star album but yet weren't because they were too perfect. I was worried after a couple of tracks that this would be one of those. It wasn't. It was just one kick ass album. God bless this woman. She died far too soon. Five stars. Standout Tracks: Move Over, Cry Baby, Half Moon, Me and Bobby McGee, Get It While You Can

She sounds like that smoking aunt that everyone has. Despite that, her vocals are insane. This is a great album, good songs, good lyrics and very well played instruments. Out of the members of the "27 Club" she is the only one that I never imagined going much far than this. I mean, she sang good songs, but she didn't have the same creative force as Hendrix or Morrisson. But I can't deny that it would have been very interesting to listen to more of this powerful voice throughout the 70s.

Alright

Did not finish it completely but liekd it

2 sore throats back to back with Tom waits in the previous album.

Fantastic!

Groovy, I suppose could work as driving music, e.g. Half Moon, but some of the tracks don't impress. Me and Bobby McGee is a classic blues song. I quite like Trust Me, I suppose it has more of the qualities that I seek for in a song - more melodic ballad-y?

bit of a heartbreaker when u consider it's a posthumous album. amazing groove throughout, and joplin's voice has the perfect cragginess for these tunes about rough love. fav tracks: half moon, buried alive in the blues.

bella, m'è piaciuta

Almost made the mistake of giving this a 4 but listened a second time through. Incredible album and definitely a worthy 5.

Great album

Underrated vocal range. She was good

Great voice. 3nd half much better than first half.

This is #day173 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… how about Janis Joplin's swansong? Her vocal power is undeniable, as is her stage presence. There's truly no one like her. The backing band blueses their hearts out with hooky melodies and rhythms, while Janis' soul shines bright, breaking through… to the other side? This is a 5 out of 5. Looking forward to #day174.

She’s good at the guitar. Sounds kind of like CCR but not really my cup of tea. I respect it though!

I'd never listened through, and Pearl is absolutely lovely. In particular, the band, arrangements, and performances on the album absolutely entranced me. Obviously, Janis' voice is singular and filled with the all the emotions available in the universe, channeled through vocal chords. It's short and sweet, also. Ten songs. Little over thirty minutes. A few absolute classics, and the other songs are worth the full ride.

It perhaps goes without saying, but quite a lot will rest on how well you get on with Janis Joplin’s voice. Icon of the counterculture, preternaturally gifted performer and still part of the conversation a lifetime after her tragic death – her voice is as distinctive as her enduring place in culture. While I won’t be hurrying back to this record, trying to argue against the brilliance of some of these songs and renditions is like trying to argue with the wind – or a big crashing wave, perhaps; she had both in the locker – so it’s a 3 from me.

Janis Joplin's *Pearl* is a landmark album in rock and blues history, released posthumously in January 1971. It captures Joplin at the height of her vocal prowess and emotional depth, showcasing her raw talent and vulnerability. Here are some listening notes for the album: ### 1. **"Move Over"** - A fiery, blues-rock opener that sets the tone for the album. - Joplin's voice is powerful and commanding, filled with urgency and passion. - The lyrics reflect her demand for respect and independence in relationships. ### 2. **"Cry Baby"** - A soulful, emotional ballad that highlights Joplin's ability to convey pain and longing. - The Full Tilt Boogie Band provides a tight, groovy backdrop. - Her vocal delivery is raw and heartfelt, making it one of her most iconic performances. ### 3. **"A Woman Left Lonely"** - A slower, more introspective track that showcases Joplin's vulnerability. - The lyrics explore themes of heartbreak and solitude, resonating deeply with her personal struggles. - The arrangement is understated, allowing her voice to take center stage. ### 4. **"Half Moon"** - An upbeat, celebratory track with a gospel-inspired feel. - Joplin's vocals are joyful and exuberant, contrasting with the more somber moments on the album. - The horn section adds a lively, dynamic layer to the song. ### 5. **"Buried Alive in the Blues"** - An instrumental track, as Joplin was scheduled to record her vocals the day after she passed away. - The Full Tilt Boogie Band shines here, delivering a tight, bluesy performance. - The absence of her voice feels haunting, adding a layer of poignancy to the album. ### 6. **"My Baby"** - A funky, upbeat track with a strong groove. - Joplin's vocals are playful and sassy, showcasing her versatility as a performer. - The song feels like a celebration of love and desire. ### 7. **"Me and Bobby McGee"** - Arguably Joplin's most famous song, written by Kris Kristofferson and Fred Foster. - Her rendition is deeply emotional, blending joy and sorrow as she tells the story of freedom and loss. - The song builds to a powerful climax, with Joplin's voice soaring in the final verses. ### 8. **"Mercedes Benz"** - A acapella track that is both humorous and poignant. - Joplin's voice is stripped down and raw, delivering a satirical take on materialism. - The simplicity of the arrangement makes it one of her most memorable performances. ### 9. **"Trust Me"** - A soulful, mid-tempo track with a smooth groove. - Joplin's vocals are tender and pleading, showcasing her ability to convey vulnerability. - The lyrics explore themes of trust and commitment in relationships. ### 10. **"Get It While You Can"** - A powerful closing track that serves as a life-affirming anthem. - Joplin's vocals are passionate and defiant, urging listeners to seize the moment. - The song feels like a fitting farewell, encapsulating her philosophy of living life to the fullest. ### Overall Impressions: - *Pearl* is a masterpiece that captures Janis Joplin's incredible range as a vocalist and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. - The album blends blues, rock, and soul seamlessly, with the Full Tilt Boogie Band providing a solid, dynamic foundation. - Joplin's untimely death adds a layer of tragedy to the album, but her spirit and talent shine through in every track. - *Pearl* remains a timeless testament to her artistry and influence on rock and blues music. Listening to *Pearl* is not just an auditory experience but an emotional journey through the highs and lows of Janis Joplin's life and music.

A strong 4: what a pity that we lost Janis before this album came out.

Some meh songs, but a few that cause frisson. Interesting combination of singing with abandon and control. Me and Bobby McGee is one of my favorite songs.

Lots of raw talent here, another lost too young. Despite the drug issues, she maintains a clear, strong voice for this album. There were reports of bad concerts, but she doesn't seem to have deteriorated as badly as Winehouse before the end came. She achieves a combination of blues, jazz, and soul mixed in with the rock. I enjoyed this, as well as some of her other work and the Big Brother output with her (apparently, Big Brother and the Holding Company is still around and still issuing albums!) and would liked to have heard how she develop her style had she had more time to do so.

Such a talent...so sad that we lost so many from that era so young.

Yep, enjoyable enough

Mostly new songs to me, very good album. Loved that it ended with singing me happy birthday

Love Janis

The strength of her voice carried the album but the songs themselves blended together.

It’s fine. Solid, bluesy rock, and she had a remarkable, instantly recognisable voice, but it doesn’t set me on fire. It’s right on the cusp of 4, but it doesn’t quite get there.

Very good music, such a shame she died at such a young age.

It's no surprise this made it to #1 as a posthumous release. Janis was a unique and special singer here for a good time not a long time. Not many artists come to mind even 50 years later that match her energy. Was that the drugs? Maybe. She sounds and looks almost twice her age here and I mean the sound part as a compliment at least. It's hard to imagine her in her actual 50s or older, unlike some other singers gone too soon. I don't know what that means,and I mean no disrespect. I still wonder why there hasn't been really anyone that seems to catch this style or energy since. At least none I'm aware of. I've always kind of linked her and Joe Cocker, but that is around the same time. Such a unique approach to songs like the wild intro to Cry Baby and how it just kind of transitions to almost just talking later on. I need to go look up the story of the Mercedes Benz track too- another unique track. Overall not the greatest album but definitely one of the most special in terms of style and coming out after the singer passed. Favorite track " Me and Bobby McGee" 4/5

3-4 stars

Legend!

I should listen more to blues! This album is really good. Janis really gets her emotions across with her unique style of singing. I heard a lot of "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Mercedes Benz" growing up so it was nice hearing it in context.

Probably a 4.5 rounded up. A superb album and, at risk of overstating the obvious, a tragedy we lost her so soon. I had not realized she died BEFORE she even released her second album. What's more, it puzzles me to acknowledge she was only 27 when she did not look or sound it (I guess heroin will do that to person). Janis Joplin, and her album pearl, seem to be right at the intersection of soul, blues, and rock. And I had not realized how much her backing band actually kinda shreds (most notably on My Baby). Gosh, to hear this record for the first time, knowing Janis had left this world had to have been chilling. RIP.

Enjoyed the start of the album, Janis has a cool voice. Lost interest towards the end. Not for me.

Iconic but a little tiring at times. Her folksy side has always not really interested me

Classical album from '71.

<3

Folksy witchcraft vibes Sang with unbridled passion Of a free woman

норм, но голос не очень приятный..

Excellent album I enjoyed the whole thing. She was a fantastic singer and very unique. The lyrics are great, the music is excellent and the vocal delivery is amazing. What's not to like about this album. I'm glad I listened to it and will definitely be listening to it again.

RIP patti's friend

Cry Baby is an obvious classic and this has my favourite JJ track on it, Me and Bobby Mc-Gee!

70s talent on the instrument with almost a 50s feel with the vocalist. Adding this one to the library

Janis Joplin’s Pearl is a great piece of blues that has the incredible capacity of traveling through the ages while still remaining relevant and deeply inspirational.

Janis Joplin was a powerful singer with her signature raspy voice that most will recognize. This is a fantastic blues/rock album that was her most successful work. Cry Baby, Me and Bobby McGee, and Mercedes Benz are all well known from this one. Definitely worth listening to. This was released after her heroin overdose death that made her one of the charter members of the original 27 Club. One can only imagine what she might have done if she hadn't OD'd. Don't do drugs kids.

Legendary raspy voice. Great songs, wonderful songwriting.

The first thing I noticed here was Janis Joplin's energy. It's electric and intense. Her emotions jump right off the disc/vinyl/Spotify. The energy is tied to her voice. She doesn't have a pristine voice, but the wavering style brings out the unabashed emotion. Her voice is so unique, and honestly I'm obsessed with it. Rock, blues, and her voice make this album one-of a kind--a pearl, truly.

Janis Joplin's Pearl is probably the diamond of her discography. Her eccentric and powerful voice is on full display here; each song gets its own vocal treatment that is unique to the soul of the song. She demonstrates what all she is capable of on this album and leaves everything on the table, somehow achieving a balancing act between raw and polished. By the end of this album, one understands why Janis was a one-of-a-kind talent.

Maybe worth visiting as an artifact as a different time, but it's hard not to see Joplin as someone who lifted a soul / R&B vocal style and did it over more straightforward rock. Maybe it was revolutionary at the time, but I don't think it aged as well as folks wish it did.

Energetic singer. Bobbie McGee is an all time classic. Solid listen

Yes very good. 2 or 3 great tracks. Not listening to the legacy edition though.

<3

Meh. This was fine.

boyo can she shout and scream and you can hear those vocal cords pop. i appreciate janis joplin, but i dont really care about groove blues jammy stuff. its a good album, if thats your thing. she makes it shine either way.

O Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz!

Favourite songs: Me and Bobby McGee, Move Over, Mercedes Benz, Cry Baby, Get It While You Can Least favourite songs: A Woman Left Lonely 4/5

this is SUCH a good album and it's really such a tragedy that Janis died right at this moment when she finally had the creative freedom she wanted as well as a backing band that was able to match her talents beat for beat and had incredible chemistry with her. I can't believe so few recordings of her and the Full Tilt Boogie Band exist...Wikipedia says that none of the concerts she played on tour with them were recorded and we only really have two appearances on The Dick Cavett Show and this album to immortalize their sound. all the more reason to be grateful for what we have- but just imagine the kind of career Janis could have had if she hadn't died when she did. truly a one-in-a-million voice, and a one-in-a-million artist, and i treasure this album and her three others with all my heart.

3.75

One of the better classic rock albums on here.

Outstanding

Yeah that was great

Def grunge and of the time. Not too bad

Hard not to admire both the power and personality of Joplin's vocals. At first I thought I was enjoying Pearl purely due to the instrumentals however, Mercedes Benz was so playful and I couldn't help but smile. It carried me into the next few songs with a different appreciation. I played the album over and it grew on me. Not an album I think I'll come back to a lot but I did enjoy it.

Good album. Love the 70s aesthetic. A few standout songs, especially when Joplin vocals gets to be the focus of the song.

Never really dug into Janis willingly. I enjoyed every song on the album aside from one - Mercedes Benz. I think the instrumentals are great and her voice had a uniquely rough but still agile quality.

ace

What an album! That voice, the one-two hit of Me & Bobby McGee (one of my all time favourite songs) and Mercedes Benz, Move Over, the tribute to Janis’s early death that is Buried Alive in the Blues…God, where do I start? This is fabulous. I’ve always thought that Janis Joplin is well overdue a reevaluation. It seems like she’s kind of not had the revival amongst modern day listeners that some of her peers have, but looking at this album I honestly cannot see why. This is absolutely top tier stuff.

Понравились две песни про Бобби и мерседес, круто рваный голос, но тоже бэкграундный альбом

Oof... that voice, tho... seriously... Thankfully, none of these tracks had particularly outrageous runtimes, though they did all seem VERY long...

This was an excellent listen. I remember some of these songs playing when I was young, but this is the first time I listened to this as an adult. Well worth the revisit.

Not my thing. Can't stand her voice.

Пожалуйста, скажите, что не я один думал, что Дженис Джоплин чёрная? Я до сегодняшнего дня не слышал ни единой её композиции и ничего не слышал о ней самой, кроме имени. Просто знал, что была такая исполнительница и всё. Моё воображение почему-то рисовало образ чернокожей блюз-дивы, распевающей свои истории где-то на крыльце старого дома посреди болот Луизианы. Что-то вроде «женской версии Би Би Кинга». Посмертный альбом «Pearl» — это, если верить легенде, квинтэссенция творчества Джоплин, её «лебединая песня». Так ли это на самом деле? Ну… давайте разбираться. Начнём с очевидного: голос. Да, голос у Дженис — это нечто! Она не просто поёт, она обрушивает на тебя целую лавину эмоций. В этом голосе и боль, и страсть, и надрыв, и некая уязвимость, которая одновременно притягивает и пугает. В каждой песне она как будто проживает целую жизнь от начала и до конца — кричит, рычит, смеётся, плачет. И в этом, на мой взгляд, и кроется главная проблема. Ты не успеваешь ещё переварить первую эмоцию, а она уже бросает тебя в следующую. С музыкой ещё сложнее. «Pearl» по ощущениям — это не альбом, а какой-то шведский стол в огромном отеле. Хотите блюграсс? Вот вам. Хотите соул? Пожалуйста. Желаете кантри? Держите! А давайте сверху ещё обильно польём это рок-н-роллом и добавим по кусочку харда, эйсида и психодела. На бумаге это, наверное, звучало как гениальная идея, но на деле… Знаете, это как если бы вы взяли сразу все специи из кухни и добавили их в одно блюдо. По отдельности — прекрасно, но вместе? Ну, скажем так, не всем такое придётся по вкусу. Дженис будто мечется между жанрами, как ребёнок в кондитерской, который хочет всё и сразу. При этом звучит словно пытается одновременно быть Джули Эндрюс и Вандой Джексон. В итоге ни один из жанров не раскрывается полностью. Чего действительно не отнять у «Pearl» так это его контрастов. Возьмём «Mercedes Benz». Эта акапельная песня — настоящий бриллиант. Никаких инструментов, никакой музыки, только голос Дженис, который звучит просто, честно и почти молитвенно. Настоящий гимн капиталистическим мечтам, исполненный с такой иронией, что хочется одновременно смеяться и аплодировать. И ту же «Buried Alive in the Blues» — инструментальная композиция, которая осталась без вокала, потому что Дженис не успела её записать до своей смерти. И знаете что? Она звучит… прекрасно. Без голоса Дженис музыка вдруг перестаёт казаться перегруженной, она дышит, она живёт. Это немного печально, но, возможно, лучшее, что случилось с этим треком, — это его незавершённость. Как итог могу сказать одно: мне не понравился ни альбом, ни исполнительница. Совершенно ничего не потерял от того, что никогда в жизни её не слушал.

A perfect ten tracks. Her voice is one of the coolest-sounding instruments ever. I didn’t realize the album was released posthumously, what a sadness.