(Elektra)
rating - 9/10
New Beginning is Tracy Chapman's long awaited fourth release. Perhaps she is best known for her 1988 single, "Fast Car", off her debut album. She has captured the intensity and lyrical passion of that most recognized effort once again. As a singer, Tracy has one of the most unique and enchanting voices of our time; as a songwriter, she has produced some of the most moving and socially relevant commentaries seen for many years. Tracy remarks that "some of the songs are dealing with issues we are facing in the world right now like the degradation of the natural environment and the lack of freedom, justice, love and honesty". Yet, this album does not contain as many social songs as on Tracy's previous releases. In addition to the mournful "The Rape of the World" and the plea for a "New Beginning" there are also some beautiful and uplifting ballads such as "Smoke and Ashes" and "The Promise".
The album was recorded practically live in the studio with a group of musicians Tracy has chosen as both her touring and recording band. This adds to the rich organic sound of her music. The incorporation of marvellous guitar melodies, Tracy's yearning voice and a mesmerizing easy-going drum beat create the characteristic sound of many of her songs. Yet, for many of the creations on this album, she has incorporated other instruments into the songs and has achieved a full, rich sound. On "The Rape of the World", the piano and conga create a melodic backdrop for the more prominent guitar, on "New Beginning", the haunting sounds of the didjeridu seep through to the foreground and on "The Promise", the violin adds a richness to the other instruments. Tracy has shown that her musical talents are diverse and creative, yet still embody the earthy quality all of her work exudes.
Tracy's dedication to the environment and other social causes does not stop with her lyrics. The photography for this album was done at an organic farm in California as Tracy wanted to "extend (the) metaphor for growth". She "wanted to incorporate these images as a way of getting people to think about the potential and possibilities that exist in something as small as a seed". The cover art is scanned on an image of her own handmade paper and, also included, is a coupon for a package of seeds which can be redeemed at any of her concerts. Tracy's folk/rock music embodies a social conscience much lacking in today's society. Her music is touching, thrilling and extremely potent.
