This album is alright if you like sad, lame, third-grader lyrics which -- to Ms. Griffin's marketing credit -- was a great way to go, apparently. After all, everybody loves a deadly-sad song that relates to how they've been so terribly wronged, whether by their lover, their parents, or life in general. Isn't that right? I liked that stuff in college. Then, I grew up. When I listen to this album, I want to shoot myself! It's SOOOOO depressing! Then there's the topic of Ms. Griffin's purported musical and lyrical genius... Please! How many times can you rhyme the words "tragic" and "magic" in any two tunes before someone notices you keep using the same lyrics over and over again?
Most of the "gems" on this album should have been left to wither in whatever sad, little, back alleyway coffee dive they had their debut in.
I only gave this album three stars because it clearly was not made "perfect" in the hands of some overzealous producer, yet Ms. Griffin manages to sing in tune some of the time. That's not saying much.
December 24, 2007 |  | Exquisite and raw tour de force...a diamond in the rough |  |
I have been hearing about Patty Griffin for years, from other artists who have mentioned being fans of her work and often raved about her. But for some reason, I never felt compelled to check her out...until I came on Amazon, and saw that this album was recommended for me. I thought, "Again with this Patty Griffin character?! I guess I have to listen to her." So I purchased this album, and immediately, my jaw was on the floor. I am in awe of her and her talent, and nowhere does this talent shine brighter than on Living with Ghosts, her first and best album to date. The first thing of note is that it's entirely acoustic; all ten songs consist of just Patty and her guitar. But they don't need anything else. Her voice is an instrument all it's own, slicing through the air like a weapon sometimes, and other times crooning softly, with a beautiful tenderness unmatched by anyone else. Full of power and grace, it's a voice that leaves you breathless and amazed. Her guitar playing ranges from explosive to contemplative. And then there's the songs themselves. All written by Patty, they are nothing short of brilliant. The lyrics are deep and poignant and poetic, sometimes elegantly, beautifully simple. On some songs, such as the standout "Sweet Lorraine" she showcases her abilities as a storyteller, bringing characters and events to life with the precision of a novelist. This is one of the best albums that have ever graced my ears, and without a doubt the most powerful solo acoustic record that has ever been made. Living with Ghosts will touch you, inspire you, break your heart, and then do it all over again. I am totally blown away by this woman and this monumental CD. Buy it, because once you do, a void will be filled you probably weren't even aware you had. Patty has become one of my very favorite artists, and I will continue to buy every work she releases. All I can do now is make up for lost time and treasure this extraordinary artist and her work. Patty, where have you been all my life?
December 1, 2007I love Patty Griffin. I was first introduced to her via Flaming Red and was immediately hooked. But this, her debut album, blew me away. She is a fantastically talented song writer with a beautiful, powerful voice. The title track is wonderful to belt out in the car (by yourself, of course). I cannot recommend anything from Patty Griffin enough.
November 15, 2007What's not to love about Patty Griffin?? Living With Ghosts is, I think, my favorite of her albums.
October 30, 2007I'm sure this is an okay album... just not my kind of music.
May 14, 2007More reviews at Amazon.com ...
