Difranco is a Buffalo, NY transplant to New Orleans for the last seven years. That in itself is a big change. She is touring in support of her most recent album, “Red Letter Year”. The venue this night, Warehouse Live, had a bustling 3/4 filled crowd for this spunky ass performer. To say the response was warm from the very pro-female crowd would be an understatement. Crowd had to be 80% women. Even AD herself proclaimed that “You guys are too damn nice”!

She was truly overwhelmed by the huge ovations. By the second tune, “98% Water”, Ani had the place hoppin’. Considering she had to lay low for a few years due to some carpal tunnel problems and having a child, AD looked fresh and happy.  “Man Hole” was a sizzling bluesy number that showcased her unique 4 string guitar.  To me it almost seems like DiFranco holds back too much from slaying guitar solos more. I’d love to see her strap on an electric and let it go. Her band sound, featuring a xylophone type instrument and softer type drum with a stand up bass, is quirky-like
the artist herself.

That being said, the tunes tended to blend together after an hour or so in. Maybe an injection of more jammin’ would fix that.  AD has her own record label, “Righteous Babe”, that has been hit hard by the economic times. The singer/songwriter has stopped offering health insurance to keep the ship afloat. Here’s too this caring and hard working lady who wonders how long she’ll be able to promote other acts on her label.

To quote Ani : “As records become less a way of making a living, the real performers will still make it. We’re all gonna be folks singers by the time this is over!”   Amen girl.  I know she’ll still be able to make a living judging by the vibrant loyalty of her cultish crowd.  She’s been kickin’ it since 1990 and I see no reason why she’ll not be around awhile longer…