That's Just the Way I Want to Be, recorded in 1970, is one of
Blossom Dearie's rarer sessions. The New York
cabaret singer adapted pretty well to changing times, stretching out on atmospheric songs that sound familiar to any fans of
singer/songwriter or
folk-rock forms. The title-track opener is a good start, her own composition (one of nine here, most of them collaborations) and one that nicely illustrates her outsider status -- a plus, as far as rock audiences were concerned.
Brian Gascoigne's floating arrangement makes good use of vibes and flute, and his charts wisely stay out of the way, except on one dated arrangement for
Dearie's "Long Daddy Green" (it has the same muddy sound as the spots for Schoolhouse Rock, which
Dearie contributed to). Elsewhere,
Dearie finds common ground with
Joni Mitchell ("Both Sides Now"), and also sings tributes to (presumably) her favorites among British rock singers, "Sweet Georgie Fame" and "Dusty Springfield" (both probably owed a small debt to her as well). Completely out of print for decades, That's Just the Way I Want to Be was ressurrected in full for use in a Japanese collection, Whisper for You. ~ John Bush, All Music Guide
