Some may say that Ani DiFranco has mellowed during recent years. During her concert at the Chicago Theatre on Oct. 13, however, it seemed that she was as sure of herself as ever - she's just at a different place in her life.
In a very intimate performance, despite the large (and very full) audience, DiFranco spoke freely about impending motherhood (she's about four months pregnant), her own personal politics and even shared a few humorous anecdotes and poems during her set. And what an amazing set it was. In addition to playing several songs from her new album "Reprieve," DiFranco treated fans to some old favorites as well as debuting a few new songs.
Much to the audience's delight, DiFranco kicked off the show with "Shy," one of the most popular tracks from her 1999 album "Not a Pretty Girl." From there, DiFranco frequently shifted the pace, moving between eras in her music much like thumbing through an old photo album. The fans were with her every step of the way, cheering as they heard the opening notes of some of their favorite songs and watching with wide-eyed awe as she shared new songs for the first time.
DiFranco's stage presence is as stripped down as her emotions. A simple, yet elegant backdrop and shifting colored lights illuminated DiFranco and her two-piece band, but never once eclipsed the performance, as is often the case at large concerts. Instead of attempting to use style to cover a lack of substance, DiFranco has truly mastered the balance between the two and the art of actually communicating with her fans.
The show seemed to end far too quickly (although she is pregnant) as she closed her set with the riotous "Shameless." The audience seemed incredibly relieved when she returned to the stage for an encore and closed the show with "Hypnotize" - as she called it, a lullaby. And it was. As the hundreds in attendance filed out of the building with the beautiful melody of her closing song still in their heads, it was clear that everyone would sleep a bit easier after the experience.
Originally published in The Chronicle in October 2006 as Jade Lee Culberson.
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