Folk-punk singer, songwriter and musician Ani DiFranco finds success in her 12th album, “Reprieve.”
Even those unfamiliar with DiFranco may recognize some of her works, such as one of the many covers of her song have has been done the Dave Matthews Band.
True fans of DiFranco will see transformation in her latest album.
However, to those unfamiliar with her work, DiFranco melds personal issues with those of mainstream culture.
DiFranco, who grew up in upstate New York and debuted in the 1990s under her own label, “Righteous Babe,” displays her range of musicianship in this album. In addition to the acoustic and electric guitar, she performs on the keyboards, drums and other instruments. DiFranco and her bassist, Todd Sickafoose, are the only two performers, a testament to their talent.
Musically, “Reprieve” is an ambitious album. More importantly it is a very personal album for DiFranco.
In recent years, DiFranco has adopted New Orleans as a second home. In August 2005, just days before Hurricane Katrina hit, DiFranco began recording tracks for “Reprieve”.
Then, just days before the levees broke and evacuation was strictly enforced, DiFranco drove back to the New Orleans’ studio to retrieve master recordings; she was later able to finish her album in Buffalo, N.Y.
Songs such as “Millenium Theater” express DiFranco’s strong sentiments on the current political administration and its response (or lack thereof) to Hurricane Katrina.
Much like Allen Ginsberg’s recording of his famed “Howl”, the evidence of DiFranco’s poetic capacity is demonstrated in the title track “Reprieve.” In this spoken-word track, she sings, “and in the face of the great face / of the nuclear age / feminism ain’t about equality / it’s about reprieve.”
“Reprieve” is already an awarding-winning track. In July, before the release of the album, the National Organization of Women presented DiFranco with the Woman of Courage award, according to the Associated Press.
If there is still hesitation about listening to or purchasing this recording, keep in mind that DiFranco has been compared to a modern-day Jodi Mitchell by both Jon Pareles of The New York Times and England’s The Independent.
Outspoken: yes. Forced: no.
“Reprieve” is an organic blend of true musicianship and vivid, clear vocals. If you want an album that truly means something, Ani DiFranco’s latest album does not disappoint.
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