Album Review: Patty Griffin – Patty Griffin (PGM/Thirty Tigers)

Patty Griffin graces us with her tenth studio album…a self-titled affair that is quietly contemplative, yet profoundly moving.

My first reaction after listening to Patty Griffin’s latest album, was, “Why haven’t I been paying attention to her earlier?”

Usually, the gateway to any singer-songwriter is their voice, either you are going to relate to it and want to hear what it has to say, or not. I’m not talking about having a perfect, crystalline singing voice, I’m talking about character and feeling.

As soon as I Heard Griffin’s voice as she began to sing Mama’s Worried, the first track on the album, I knew I was hooked. All she needed now was a few songs to match.

Fortunately, there are plenty of those.

The second track, River, is a standout. Using the title as a metaphor for female empowerment, Griffin paints a beautiful picture even as she makes a bold statement.

Isn’t she a river?
She doesn’t need a diamond to shine
You can’t really have her
But you can hold her for a time
Takes an army just to bend her
Be careful where you stand her
You can’t hold her back for long
The river is just too strong
She’s a river

And the top quality songs come one after another with titles like Luminous Places, Boys From Tralee and Where I Come From.

Griffin’s voice is supported by a small coterie of musicians who provide a sparse, yet critical ingredient to the album’s success. Most notable among them is guitarist David Pulkingham, whose Spanish-style picking on the opening track sets the tone for the rest of the record. He particularly shines on Where I Come From, Griffin’s ode to her home town of Old Town, Maine where the guitarist steps out in front of the small band and plays a beautiful solo.

Also notable is cellist Lindsay Verrill, who adds her magic to the languid Luminous Places.

There is a name you’ll most likely recognize also appearing on the credits. Robert Plant, Griffin’s former beau, sings backing vocals on two songs, but, to be honest, his contribution is minimal.

Instead, its Patty Griffin’s voice you should be listening to. Hers is an expressive instrument that aims straight for the heart.

Now to go back and explore those previous nine albums…

Marty Duda