Ani DiFranco - Reprieve
(2006)

Review by Anne Davis

It's strange how music works. Some artists toil in danky pubs for years, never reaching the success that they likely crave. While others simply step onto the set of Australian Idol and are musical sensations within the click of a text message. 

There is also a flow on effect from these overnight success'. Without the likes of Missy Higgins, Sarah Blasko and Casey Chambers making the leap to FM radio - artists such as Ani Defranco would likely still be invisible under a cloud of commercial pop rock and Nickelback tracks.

The thing is - Ani Defranco has been around for over 10 years now. Her latest album, "Reprieve", is her 18th studio album since beginning her career in those halcyon days of the early 90's. A year when the kids from Neighbours were setting the pop charts on fire - which ironically, is still happening today. So why hasn't Ani hit the bigtime?

She sounds more Sarah Blasco than Missy - or perhaps Sarah sounds more like Ani - with some rather cool laid back tracks that are just made for those lazy days in your room. The guitar returns as does her smooth vocals - which are reminiscent of Emiliana Terrini with a whisp of Damien Rice. Admittedly, it's often difficult to distinguish between them sometimes. A lone voice and a softly strummed guitar, so a great song really has to stand out.

Ani has tended to be weighed down by her lyrical prowess in the past, with this album often turning into an overt political statement. One track towards the middle of the album gets particularly annoying as Ani simply speaks rather than sings. Sure, it may work for some - but they are generally quite good, whereas Ani has sadly yet to reach her peak.

Having said that, the heartfelt emotion of Ani's music is quite apparent. "Reprieve" was recorded during the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and you can often hear the sense of anguish that Ani tries to convey.

It's a fine album, and is simply perfect for the upcoming summer family barbecues. But, at some point - Ani would surely be aiming for something other than unobtrusive background music. It's beautiful - but as with most things - beauty can get tiresome if there is no personality on offer.

On a more superficial note - I've always been a sucker for a cool CD package - and gladly Ani hasn't disappointed here. It's embossed, it's recycled cardboard - beautiful.

RATING: 3 out of 5