Ani Difranco 2012

I almost didn't go... buried deep in lesson planning, special education IEP's and evaluations, and toddler tantrums, I had decided to give up concerts for a little bit. But... my husband, friends, and family have been singing 'balance, balance, balance' in my ear. So, I gave in, and joined a few of my favorite feminists for the Ani concert at First Avenue last night. The second song performed 'Splinter' echoed my new mantra 'balance'. Even though I had to leave before the encore (a sad first for me), it felt good to be out. First Avenue is a fabulous place to see Ani- up close, personal, loud, and fun. She was significantly less chatty than the last time I saw her, but performed a thoughtful, incredible set. A few highlights included a balanced mix of old an new Ani music, a gracious and friendly crowd to sing along with,  her announcing her pregnancy :) and celebrating her birthday, and a solid 3 hour reprieve from paperwork. I'm always thrilled when the opening band is something to pay attention to, and this was no exception!

Check out Pearl and the Beard:

Nothing restores balance to this teacher's life like a good night with friends, drinks, and Ani music.

On a side note, while talking to my paraprofessional (a very recent female college graduate) this morning about our weekends, she admitted she had no idea who Ani Difranco was. I swallowed my shock with great difficulty. I cannot imagine a college experience as a female without Ani Difranco in its soundtrack, and hope with all my might girls today have another artist singing the good song for them. She seems like a super nice lady, but I may have to burn a cd for her. I'm not sure Lady Gaga quite cuts it.