Which Side Are You On?

iTunes Review

Ani's an independent-minded folk singer who's always stood for the individual, so it's not surprising to learn that her first studio album in more than three years features tales of people struggling through a tough economy. She's joined by Pete Seeger for a reworking of his legendary protest anthem (the album's title track), where she invokes many of the troubles facing America in 2012. DiFranco's living in New Orleans these days, and "Life Boat" sends her eyes and ears there to speak as a homeless woman for whom "this park bench is a lifeboat." "Amendment" demands laws that protect women's rights. It's not all protest and darkness, though; her touring band keeps the grooves up, while guests like Ivan and Cyril Neville and avant-saxophonist Skerik further color the sounds and her dreams. She's playful with the frank truths of "Promiscuity." "Hearse," a gentle folk tune, clings to love in the face of death. With a New Orleans funky blues for "If Yr Not," she lets us know that "if you're not getting happier as you get older, then you're f***in' up." Forever the free spirit, DiFranco keeps it honest and real.