I’ve posted about Ani DiFranco a few times before, so I won’t spend much time dwelling on how much I love her music today. But I thought it was worth mentioning a “new” release from her, the career retrospective Canon set for release next Tuesday (h/t to Muruch). The title gives you a good idea of the subject matter – this is a pretty reasonable cross-section of her great songs over the years. I can’t say it’s the exact 30-odd tracks I would choose for my own list, but almost every crucial one is here (including the absolutely essential trio of “32 Flavors,” “Little Plastic Castle,” and “Both Hands”).
The biggest omission in my mind is “Angry Any More” from 1999’s Up Up Up Up Up Up. It’s one of the best songs I’ve ever heard about growing up and coming to see your parents in a different light. I saw her right around when that album came out do this song acoustic and solo, and it was one of the most tender concert moments I’ve ever experienced.
Both Hands (new version) – Ani DiFranco
Perhaps the other big omission is the decision to include new versions of some of the old classics. The biggest example has to be “Both Hands” – which is here, but as a new, more pop-influenced version. Now, I don’t disagree with the choice to include the new take – it’s a fascinating re-envisioning of the song and actually quite enjoyable. I also love that (with this one and the orchestral take from Living in Clip) there are now three very unique variations on the song, each with their own strengths.
That said, it’s hard to imagine an Ani canon that fails to include the original, which is sparsely beautiful, and emblematic of everything that made Ani such a stunning revelation. Include them both if you must, but give people a chance to hear the 20 year-old Ani and wonder at her empathy and strength.
If you don’t have all the old Ani records, Canon might be great place to start. But frankly no record collection is complete without at least picking up Little Plastic Castle, Ani DiFranco, Dilate, and Living in Clip. So get right on that.