A new year could mean only one thing for Ani DiFranco [ tickets ]: time for a new album. But is being a prolific songwriter a blessing or a curse for this one-woman musical hurricane? Indeed, DiFranco's latest is a mixed bag.

"Knuckle Down" uses blues, traditional folk-rock and Ani's singular spoken word/staccato acoustic guitar style to explore such topics as longing for a former lover, sentimental family remembrances and personal resilience--familiar territory in Ani’s songbook.

Tracks like "Studying Stones," "Manhole," and "Modulation," see DiFranco continue her streak of songs with accessible, funky arrangements. The style suits her well. Still, she can't help but wade into the spoken-word swamp--one that, unless you're a die-hard fan, promises to be sticky and dense.

But that's exactly what has made DiFranco such an essential artist. Her uncompromising ethos constantly challenges the status quo--even if there are some faults to be found amidst all those blessings.