Music Review: Rattle Them Chains by Pam Ortiz

It takes a Village, it is said. Singer/Songwriter Pam Ortiz’s latest release, “Rattle Them Chains,”  brings that to mind. This is Pam’s first post-Terra Nova recording, and she makes it count. This CD immediately grabs, and then holds your attention. There is much to attend, as Pam successfully melds her merry band of Eastern Shore musicians and vocalists (Lester Barrett, Jerome McKinney, Karen Somerville, Mary Ashley, Nevin Dawson, Ford Schumann, along with husband Bob and daughter Sopia) and DC area veterans (including some heavy hitters, among them dobro legend Mike Auldridge) into a stylistic variety of music that is as effective as it is impressive.

The obvious inspirations of blues, jazz, folk, gospel and new grass are all present, and out in the open. Equally out in the open are Pam’s personal sensibilities, and in particular her intolerance for injustice. She leaves none of that to the imagination, which will be clear within the first forty seconds of the CD. It’s also easy to imagine the joy shared in the studio, with some songs obviously written in order to give the musicians space; to express themselves and to just have fun. “Rattle Them Chains”  takes us on a ride to multiple destinations, remaining credible all along the way.

With this said, I am struck with the notion that “Rattle Them Chains” did not really take (require) a village so much as it created one. This CD itself is indeed  a village, with Pam as the facilitator. The references and influences seems to be coming from everywhere, but quickly take their position in the larger context. There is much movement, but no motion sickness. Impressive in this effort is Pam’s sensibility in matching and melding musicians from across multiple spectrums. Where others might do well to simply minimize the cacophony; Pam squeezes the juices from the array of fruit thoroughly, then demonstrates that she understands what can be done with it. And, underneath it all, Pam’s mature songwriting provides genuine meat and potatoes for the musicians and singers to both feast upon, and offer to us.

Don’t expect to listen to this CD casually, or in the background. At least not the first (or second) time. This project is no small effort, and is the product of patience, commitment, love and a gentle strength. This project is Pam Ortiz.