The second in the trilogy of three-disc anthologies of Crosby, Stills & Nash, Reflections is a proper tribute to the member most deserving of critical re-evaluation. Nash is often portrayed as a lucky Ringo figure, but his sweetness and ear for melody guaranteed CSN a popularity far beyond the heads, while his upbeat, peacemaking nature has often brought CSN back together. Unreleased songs and mixes make this more of a revelation than 2006’s Crosby anthology, because everybody is more or less in awe of his work already. Reflections gives appropriate credence to Nash’s talent.
Over 64 tracks we have the cream of the collaborations and solo work. Marrakech Express (originally demoed for The Hollies) leaps out with the same stoned cheerfulness now as it did 40 years earlier, as does Our House, while there’s a great mix of Better Days, underlining the song’s sinister minor chords. Occasionally we misfire: Chicago sounds like Mark Owen singing against Al-Qaeda, while there’s shrapnel from Nash’s synth-dominated mid-80s Innocent Eyes.
It’s five stars for the proper evaluation of Nash’s career, but often three for Reflections’ content. For its gravitas, RC is delighted with a stately four. Nash seems never to have lost his fighting spirit and wide-eyed innocence; just hide the roaches.
