Up Up Up Up Up Up
Ani DiFranco · 1999
61 min · 11 tracks · folk rock
Raw, introspective folk-rock intertwines intricate guitar work with Ani DiFranco's dynamic, spoken-word delivery.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
'Tis of Thee Start here — This opening track features a poignant reflection on identity and patriotism, showcasing DiFranco's signature blend of personal and political themes.
-
→
Angry Any More — In this song, DiFranco expresses a raw vulnerability about relationships and emotional struggles, making it a standout moment that resonates with listeners.
-
→
Everest — Through metaphorical imagery, this track explores the concept of ambition and personal challenges, encapsulating the album's overarching themes of growth and perseverance.
-
→
Up Up Up Up Up Up — The title track captures a sense of urgency and hopefulness, reflecting DiFranco's energetic style while drawing listeners into her unique worldview.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features intricate songwriting and strong performances, but its appeal may be limited to dedicated listeners of the genre.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a spoken-word piece that sets a reflective tone, followed by tracks that alternate between intricate guitar work and dynamic vocal delivery.
- The last three tracks gradually decrease in tempo, allowing for a contemplative conclusion that contrasts with the more energetic earlier pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- long immersive listening sessions
- contemplative late-night moods
- dynamic emotional journeys
- layered dense sonic textures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — This album is noted for its critical acclaim and innovative sound, marking a high point in her career.
- Career context
- By the time 'Up Up Up Up Up Up' was released, Ani DiFranco was already an established artist known for her independent approach. This album marked her first release after founding her own label, Righteous Babe Records, further solidifying her status as a pioneering figure in the indie music scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dar Williams· Tori Amos· Michelle Shocked
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Angry Any More
The narrator confronts their past emotions directly instead of shying away from them.
This direct confrontation creates a powerful shift in tone that emphasizes vulnerability over perceived strength.
Tracklist
- 1 ’Tis of Thee Start here 4:43
- 2 Virtue 5:08
- 3 Come Away From It 8:22
- 4 Jukebox 4:26
- 5 Angel Food 5:46
- 6 Angry Any More 3:27
- 7 Everest 5:15
- 8 Up Up Up Up Up Up 3:22
- 9 Know Now Then 4:38
- 10 Trickle Down 3:50
- 11 Hat Shaped Hat 12:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.