Definitely a toss-up, although I'd take "Salute", in spite of some of the weaker songs, over either of the other two albums of that approximate era.
Let's see...
The two title songs: Shadows is an excellent song; as I mentioned at the Northampton, MA concert back in October, it was so beautiful that the audience paused before applauding, trying to take in the impact of the song. Much better than DSR, which I find kind of impersonal and formulaic.
Weaker songs on "Shadows": All I'm After (someone recently mentioned the "I Think I've Got it Maaaaaaade" verse, and I agree that it's annoying). Thank You for the Promises and I'll Do Anything are not Gord's best (has he ever played them in concert?).
Weaker songs on "DSR": "Hey You"; I think "The Auctioneer" is OK, but some have mentioned disliking it intensely.
The sea songs: "Triangle" vs. "Ghosts of Cape Horn"--Triangle is more fun, Ghosts is more profound; toss-up.
The best songs: On Shadows, the title song, In My Fashion, Heaven Help the Devil and Blackberry Wine are the ones that I like best; 14K gold is interesting but its message is muddy (if a woman is as valuable as 14K gold, why would you "keep your mind a mystery, run 'em hot and cold? why would you say "gonna pack my chips/I'm leavin' town today?"). I like She's Not the Same, and Baby Step Back, but wouldn't put them in the upper ranks.
On DSR, I don't think the songs reach the quality of the best of Shadows, but there are more to like--Sea of Tranquility, Ghosts, On the High Seas, Whisper My Name, If You Need Me, Make Way for the Lady and Mr. Rock of Ages may not be in the top tier of his songs, but they all have good melodies, fine songwriting, and a message.
I guess I'd say a tie, except that I probably listen to DSR about 50% more than I do Shadows. So, DSR.
DQ
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