Back in 2007 I fulfilled a long-held ambition to see Nanci Griffith perform some of her classic homespun tales live here in the UK. The venue was less than perfect and the audience seemed much smaller than I had envisaged it would be. However, it remains of my most memorable gigs. We’ve also broken another duck by receiving our first review copy of a new Nanci Griffith album. THE LOVING KIND is firmly in classic Griffith territory.

One of the greatest things about this lady is that her songs are simply and elegantly executed with lyrics that are both simple and powerful. The album opener is a prime example. ‘The Loving Kind’ is subtle country and western story-telling at its best with an unintrusive instrumental arrangement that allows Nanci’s distinctive voice to shine. ‘Money Changes Hands’ (written by Gale Trippsmith) is a cautionary tale told beautifully with one of those unnmovable, mind-lodging melodies - an album highlight and my personal favourite. ‘One Of These Days’ is a cracker and reminds me of another classic, ‘Love At The Five And Dime.’ It sways gently with an interesting vocal twist in the chorus. Wonderful. ‘Up Against The Rain’ sounds like a moving tribute to a lost friend: “I feel your presence in this room… You took on yourself to pave the road to hell.” The instrumental arrangement accurately reflects the song’s sad vibe. ‘Cotton’ is about the struggle to survive on the land, especially relevant now with the decline in American farming income and the poverty-stricken, desperate state of many dependent on the land. It’s a beautifully told tale.

‘Not Innocent Enough’ is another great highlight here. It’s anotehr cautionary tale about drug addiction; crimes committed to feed the habit; and the almost inevitable consequences. The song ends with spoken words from what must be a criminal addict. ‘Party Girl’ (by Dan Moddler) is unusually upbeat and rhythmic for a Nanci Griffith song. As Always it holds a message: “She’s was a party girl but now the party’s over.”

‘Things I Don’t Need’ is about materialism and the need to pay more attention to things that really matter (”I woke up today and made up my mind, from now on I’ll leave all those things I don’t need behind…”). ‘Still Life’ is another moving lyrical gem hammered home with sensativity, care and sincerity in classic Griffith style.

I’ve heard most of Nanci’s best songs from the past. She has now added several more to that formidable list from this album. There’s no doubt in my mind that the lady is back to her best form, and for fans this is an absolute joy. This is one of her finest albums to-date and is due for release in the UK during June/July 2009.

4.5/5

Editor’s Note: Two songs from this album will be played on the Shakenstir Radio Session on Sunday 7 May 2009 from 10pm and can be heard via www.calonfm.com