I was introduced to Nanci's music early in the year this album came out, so I'd already listened to quite a bit of her back catalogue by the time this was released in September '91. This was her 8th album so she'd laid a lot of groundwork before I came along.
Her style is classed as folk rock, country folk, Americana, even pop rock on occasion. Regardless of the pigeon-hole she's slotted into, her voice is distinctive and her music tells stories. And I like it.
That's the most important thing. Genres and styles are irrelevant if the finished product appeals to the listener.
Despite this being her 8th, it was the first of her albums I bought. Out of the 11 tracks, Nanci wrote 6 and co-wrote a further 2. The ones she wrote display a great talent and perception along with a sense of humour when it counts. She's also quite overtly political when needed. Probably due to one of her acknowledged influencers, Pete Seeger.
My pick of the crop on this particular release would be 'One Blade Shy of a Sharp Edge', 'It's Just Another Morning Here' and 'It's Too Late'. I've chosen the album title track as the link for this review.
Nanci has the ability to attract great musicians to her orbit and this album is no exception. Providing vocals on some tracks are Phil Everly and Tanita Tikaram (I reviewed an album of hers back in June). Add to that the producers, Peter van Hooke from Mike + the Mechanics and Rod Argent, keyboardist and founder of The Zombies.
When she chooses to cover other people's songs she chooses well. The last track on this album is her version of Tom Wait's 'San Diego Serenade'.
She really took those choices to their full potential in the album she made in 1993 - 'Other Voices, Other Rooms'.
Every song on the album was a cover and the respect she commands in the industry is evident by the way the original artists stood up with her.
When she sings the Bob Dylan song 'Boots of Spanish Leather' none other than Bob Dylan himself plays harmonica.
When John Prine's 'Speed of the Sound of Loneliness' comes on, there's John Prine singing harmonies and backing. Throw people like Carolyn Hester, Emmylou Harris, Arlo Guthrie and Odetta into the mix and you have some powerful friends rallying around.
Search out some Nanci Griffith. Make your own decision. I'm guessing she'll win you over.
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