It seems to me that Nanci Griffith's new album, "The Loving Kind," is just about a perfect musical companion for the Fourth of July.Griffith pricks America's social consciousness with "Not Innocent Enough," an indictment of the death penalty, and with the title track, a tune about an interracial couple who 50 years ago won a Supreme Court decision securing their right to be married.
Those are the songs that are receiving most of the attention, and they're fine songs, but the real strength of the album is Griffith's ability to connect with ordinary folks. That starts with her voice, which has always been an American treasure. It's an everywoman's voice ... except no one else sounds like Griffith.
Griffith's vocals, both joyous and plaintive, navigate the landscape of life in America. Cynics will dismiss the simple message of hope in the lyrics of "Across America," but it's a message that will resonate with the people rebuilding their lives after disasters both natural and economic.
Her return to the more traditional country of Griffith's early albums will resonate with her long-time fans. Covers of two Dee Moeller songs — "Party Girl" and "Tequila After Midnight" — are particularly good. They sound like classic country, classic Nanci Griffith.
To me, it's the sound of America.
