Ani DiFranco – Unprecedented Sh!t

Ani DiFranco's "Unprecedented Shit"

Full disclosure: This isn't typically the kind of music that has captured my interest in the past. But as someone rooted in more traditional tastes, I'll approach this review with an open mind. It took me time to warm up to the late Amy Winehouse, yet her undeniable voice and distinctive style eventually won me over, even earning praise from Tony Bennett. I'm still grappling with the genres of artists like P.J. Harvey and Liz Phair.

However, despite my personal preferences, what Grammy-winning Ani DiFranco from Buffalo, NY, accomplishes on "Unprecedented Shit" (set for release on May 17 via Righteous Babe Records, with a runtime of 38 minutes) is consistently impressive. Handling all instruments herself, DiFranco demonstrates unwavering originality through her creative compositions, appealing vocal style, nuanced intonation, phrasing, and tone.

Is her music an acquired taste? Perhaps. Yet, that doesn't detract from the effort poured into these 11 well-sequenced tracks, produced by BJ Burton. Even with sparse instrumentation, her ingenuity shines through, and her engaging vocal delivery holds its own.

"Boots of a Soldier" stands out for its intensity. DiFranco imbues the song with character, delivering a near-juvenile reading that contrasts with its mature themes, showcasing minimalism without sacrificing depth in horn or percussion production. Each track is meticulously crafted, with her expressive voice shining brightly on tracks like "More Or Less Free," where she navigates unconventional percussive textures with finesse. Her music delves deeper than many dare, offering narratives that are sharp and eloquent, as seen in "New Bible."

DiFranco may not be a Joni Mitchell, but she shares Mitchell's knack for challenging musical norms and traversing social and political landscapes with disciplined, evocative songwriting. Her 23rd LP marks a departure from her usual restraint, blending social commentary without resorting to heavy-handed approaches.

You don't have to agree with DiFranco's viewpoints to appreciate her artistry. Through her music, she tackles controversial topics with a delicate touch, grazing upon complex emotions and societal issues. She may not evoke the sweetness of Judee Sill or the gritty resolve of Lucinda Williams, but her strength lies in consistently playing to her own advantage.

"Unprecedented Shit" is complemented by striking cover art and standout tracks like "More Or Less Free," "New Bible," "Boots of a Soldier," "You Forgot To Speak," "The Thing At Hand," and "The Knowing."

Additional musicians on the album include Andy Stochansky on hand-drum, Terence Higgins and Jharis Yokley on drums, Todd Sickafoose on electric piano, and Joy Clark and Lilli Lewis contributing vocals. The album includes a 12-page lyric insert, with cover photography courtesy of Danny Clinch.

For more information, visit Ani DiFranco's official website, Bandcamp, or https://anidifranco.com/.