Ani DiFranco-- Knuckle Down

[Josh]

As I've mentioned in other threads, I wouldn't be too interested in this album if it weren't for the fact that it's co-written and co-produced by the great Joe Henry.

Anyway, today I stumbled upon a site where you can stream four of the new songs in their entirety, and read all the lyrics to the album. Enjoy.

[Josh]

More good news: According to this article, the drummer on the new album is none other than Jay Bellerose, the uber-talented musician who played on Sam Phillips' last album!

[Josh]

All Music likes it pretty well, giving it 3 and a half stars out of 5.

[Josh]

I'm giving this album a B.

If it weren't for Joe Henry, it probably would have been more like a C. But Henry's production is, as always, flawless. He reigns in some of DiFranco's more indulgant and annoying tendencies, and he adds a touch of jazz to her usual folk/funk concoction. He also gives these songs some surprising depth by adding horns, strings, and pianos in with the acoustic guitars.

Unfrotunately, DiFranco's lyrics are angsty and angry. Sure, she can turn a phrase, but what's so inspiring or elevating about these depressing, diary-entry songs? They sound like very clever, very polished high school poetry.

That's just my first impression. Maybe the songwriting will grow on me. For now, I'm going to say that this album is a big step in the right direction for Ani, but it's not quite meaningful art just yet.

B.

[dgp11776]

Unfortunately, DiFranco's lyrics are angsty and angry. Sure, she can turn a phrase, but what's so inspiring or elevating about these depressing, diary-entry songs? They sound like very clever, very polished high school poetry.

Thanks for the review, Josh.  I actually was somewhat considering this because of Joe Henry, but I think I'll stear clear now due to this paragraph.  

[Josh]

Thanks for the review, Josh.  I actually was somewhat considering this because of Joe Henry, but I think I'll stear clear now due to this paragraph.

Oh, don't get me wrong-- the album is well worth hearing, and, compared to past DiFranco albums, the lyrics are quite an improvement.

I'd recommend listening to it if you ever have a chance, but definitely hear it before you buy it.

[Aaron]

Definitely not the Buffalo-native's best album, but it's average.  I believe there is a Righteous Babe Records exhibit being created up here in Buffalo to celebrate Ani's career.

[Josh]

Some Arts and Faith colleagues encouraged me to give this one another listen. I'm glad they did. It's beginning to grow on me quite a bit. I'm still not completely sold on it, but, more and more, I'm beginning to hear its virtues.

[Josh]

I've kinda been won over by this album.

I'm beginning to see more and more introspection and value in these lyrics.

I'm boosting my rating up to a B+, and recommending this one to anybody who digs folk music.