This 10-album collection illustrates the remarkable growth of Joni Mitchell. While her David Crosby–produced self-titled debut album (a.k.a. "Song to a Seagull") is overwrought in spots, by Clouds Mitchell had refined her attack. It includes songs covered by others (Tom Rush for “Tin Angel,” Judy Collins for “Both Sides Now”) and the joyful expression of “Chelsea Morning.” Ladies of the Canyon further expanded her talents, with the hit single “Big Yellow Taxi” and the timely “Woodstock.” 1970’s Blue was perfect: that rare moment (“Blue,” “River,” “Last Time I Saw Richard”) where an artist both breaks new ground and remains accessible to a mass audience. For the Roses went further; its peaks were stunning (“Lesson in Survival,” “Let the Wind Carry Me”). Her most commercially successful album, Court and Spark, hardly lacked for adventure, and its arrangements grew grander. Her love for various guitar tunings led to a trio of fantastic albums that were at times too challenging for pop audiences but reward the patient listener handsomely. Mingus was her tribute to the jazz individualist Charles Mingus, with whom she shared a musical and spiritual affinity.