Patty Griffin LIVING WITH GHOSTS

Personnel: Patty Griffin (vocals, acoustic guitar); Adam Steinberg, Ty Tyler (guitar).
Personnel: Patty Griffin (vocals); Ty Tyler, Adam Steinberg (guitar).
Audio Mixer: Steve Barry.
Photographers: Jason Ware; Marina Chavez.
Arranger: Adam Steinberg.
The debut album by singer-songwriter Patty Griffin is a low-key, largely acoustic set with simple, unobtrusive arrangements supporting her lyrics and melodies. Allegedly the demo tape that got the Maine native signed to A&M Records, and slightly remixed by producer Nile Rodgers, LIVING WITH GHOSTS has a live-in-the-studio feel that keeps the listener from mentally pigeonholing Griffin's smart, introspective tunes. These 10 songs share common ground with Nashville country, the then-emergent Lilith Fair scene, and rockier women like Aimee Mann and Liz Phair. That Griffin's songs have been covered by everyone from Emmylou Harris to Jessica Simpson is proof of how wide her talent spreads. Particular highlights here include "Let Him Fly," "Every Little Bit," and "Not Alone."

• Format: CD
• Genre: Pop