Mavis Staples: One True Vine

Mavis Staples worked with Jeff Tweedy on the Grammy-winning You Are Not Alone, which told a winning tale of two kindred spirits finding and developing a close harmony. Here their working relationship soars even higher, with Tweedy laying the ground to coax some mesmerising, stellar gospel performances from the singer. Staples has given voice to many sights, experiences and feelings during a lifetime of singing, and One True Vine takes its emotional pointers from questioning and pondering her faith and beliefs. It's a promising premise and Staples doesn't hold back on the introspection, brooding on the darkness that shadows the light via a rash of Tweedy originals, traditional songs and a few well-chosen covers. The musical backing is sparse, subtle and careworn, with nothing to distract from the voice as Staples rewinds on life's wrong turns, misfortunes and decisions. mavisstaples.com
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