Ani Difranco has made me who I am today. A day rarely passes when I don't pay homage to some aspect of her that is reflected in my character...

I picked up Dilate a few years ago because it looked kind of interesting. I didn't know anything about Ani Difranco at the time, and noone had recommended her to me. After listening to the CD a few times, I was hooked. Five or six CDs later, I'm really a fan. Her music isn't easily categorized - I think folk/punk is the description I hear most. Overall, her lyrics are interesting, her singing and playing are great, and the songs are powerful. Plus, you have to respect the fact that she formed her own record company (Righteous Babe) and produces all her own CDs. She has complete control, leaving her free to experiment and be creative. If you're thinking about buying one of her CDs, start with Dilate.