Patti Scialfa: '23rd Street Lullaby' review

By Brian Q. Newcomb
Article Published June 24, 2004
St. Louis, USA

"23rd Street Lullaby"
Columbia Records

It's been 11 years since Patti Scialfa's last solo effort, "Rumble Doll," an anxious attempt to scramble out of the shadow of her platinum-selling, larger-than-life husband, Bruce Springsteen. With "23rd Street Lullaby," Scialfa sets aside a decade of child-rearing and sold-out arena tours as part of the E Street Band to reflect on a simpler time when, as a young woman, she discovered her potential as a singer-songwriter in New York's Chelsea neighborhood.

Of course, the Boss connection will bring most people to "Lullaby." On listening, however, they'll find smart reflections by a sophisticated woman who, together with producer-drummer Steve Jordan ("Saturday Night Live," Keith Richards), has come to terms with her talent at age 50. She's written old-school pop-rock songs, rich with R&B-toned sensuality, that tell universal stories about everyday people aspiring to love and be loved, to create a space where their spirit can thrive.

She understands that "You Can't Go Back," but that doesn't make Scialfa's memory any less warm or kind. Romance pours through fine remembrances such as "Rose," "Stumbling to Bethlehem" and "Each Other's Medicine." Her husband's anthemic presence is never too far off and can be felt warmly on the title track; "Love (Stand Up)," on which he plays; and the album's closing trilogy - "State of Grace," "Chelsea Avenue" and "Young in the City" - on which he does not.

That Scialfa's orbit travels so close to one of the pop solar system's large suns doesn't make her own star shine any less. A subtle yet genuine talent, Scialfa can turn a phrase that stirs the imagination, and she sings with the emotional honesty and depth that is rare these days. "23rd Street Lullaby" is a gentle testimony to patience, perseverance and finding one's true voice.