Live at Babeville
by Ani DiFranco
(Righteous Babe)
After nineteen albums in nearly eighteen years, describing Ani DiFranco as an overachiever seems something of an understatement. However there are other adjectives that are commonly applied to DiFranco's feisty persona, reflecting the fact that she can be edgy, outspoken and defiant of those of who question her insurgent stance. Indeed, her albums often find her taking aim at issues involving sex, politics and our modern malaise.
It's notable then that Live at Babeville, a concert filmed in the intimate environs of a 135 year-old reconverted church in Buffalo New York -- which also houses DiFranco's Righteous Babe record label -- finds a more personable performer connecting with an appreciative audience. "I have the best job," she declares, and interacting with the crowd, it's clear she delights in soaking up the rapturous response from these true devotees. With most of the songs drawn from her ample catalogue, nearly every number is greeted by shrieks of recognition and obvious enthusiasm.
Nevertheless, DiFranco's unrepentant attitude still surfaces in the songs - especially in "Shy" (I have too much on the table, I have too much at stake"), the skittish shuffle of "Swim," "Fuel" and "Marrow" and the tangled, unrepentant attitude of "Not a Pretty Girl" and "Independence Day." Her sardonic asides, fluid melodies and brisk, percussive rhythms create a volatile combination, a swagger and sway capable of intimidating the uninitiated. Yet stripped down to these unassuming jazz-infused arrangements (guitar, stand-up bass, drums and vibes), the music is just as often as pretty and poignant as it's tangled and tempestuous.
The relatively few backstage glimpses - some small talk before the show, s bit of rehearsal footage and a brief informal interview - offer further evidence of DiFranco's humor and humility, qualities that are often overlooked in her recordings. "I'm really psyched to be here with you," she remarks early on, and given the crowd's reaction, the feeling's clearly mutual.
Standout Tracks: "Shy," "Independence Day," "Present/Infant" LEE ZIMMERMAN
