ALBUM REVIEW: Danielle Howle Lets ‘Current’ Direct Her Creativity
Rachel Cholst
Posted On November 1, 2023
On Current, Danielle Howle displays her expertise at capturing music’s spirit. That’s not a vague cliché. Howle opens her album with the lyrics “Why’d I let all of that outta my mouth / Don’t you know I feel insane?”
While that song “Live Through,” is about navigating conflict, the lines also hint at Howle’s process. She excels at writing songs that she grabs from thin air. “Live Through” was born from extemporaneous riffing at a live show, with a groove that is irresistible. Other songs on Current arrived in much the same way: a flash of inspiration that Howle followed to the end of the trail as soon as it presented itself. These may seem like straightforward folk-rock songs, but there are little lyrical burrs scattered throughout each song that draw your ear.
The dynamic between Howle’s rock-steady hooks and her gossamer lyrics creates a puzzle for the listener. Some of these lines could mean one thing — or they could mean anything. Coming off the cuff as they do, there’s an ambiguity that can make one song have as many meanings as it has listeners. On “I’m Alright,” Howle turns to the frustrations of a working musician with a resolute refrain: “I hope this comes back before my final smile.” Is Howle referring to death? Or perhaps something shorter-term?
“Keep the Light” trails off into an abstract instrumental breakdown, demonstrating sonically how Howle’s approach can be translated musically. Her freewheeling approach to grabbing songs seemingly out of nowhere leads to music that is immediate, mysterious, and vital.
Throughout Current, one gets the sense that Howle is both open to anything and has a solid grip on the reins: A veteran singer-songwriter, it’s obvious she knows how to allow inspiration to flow through her while harnessing it into something concrete but lively. Howle demonstrates that it’s possible to let the current catch you and still steer your way to shore.
Danielle Howle’s Current is out Nov. 3 on Kill Rock Stars Nashville.
