My Life avoids the sophomore jinx so many artists encounter with an album even better than her acclaimed debut. Produced in Nashville by Jim Rooney with musical support from Jack Clement, Stuart Duncan and Robin & Linda Williams. My Life includes songs by Mother Maybelle Carter and Lefty Frizzell plus eight DeMent penned originals.
In a gatefold sleeve on 180 gram vinyl.
First time issued on vinyl!
Review
Like Infamous Angel, My Life opens on a light note, which is hardly
adequate preparation for the emotional turbulence that follows. The album is
dedicated to Iris Dement's father, who passed away prior to its release, and
although there are some scattered moments of joy here, they are largely absorbed
by a collection of songs dealing with primal anguish and longing.
DeMent's writing has hardened a bit, producing her most mature and encompassing
song in “No Time to Cry,” which serves as an anchor for the album's rich
sentimentality and is also an indication, in its social obsessions, of the
direction her next album would take. Elsewhere, DeMent's songcraft remains
exceptional but, as before, the true magic is in her voice, which imbues even
the simplest songs with perfect, pure emotion. Highlights include Maybelle
Carter's “Troublesome Waters,” “Easy's Gettin' Harder Every Day,” and a
terrific rendition of Lefty Frizzell's “Mom and Dad's Waltz.” The gorgeous
title track closes the album, a piano-cello duet that is one of her most moving
performances. For those who appreciate DeMent's rough-hewn voice, it is nearly
impossible to exaggerate the beauty of these recordings.
Jim Smith, AllMusic.com