Review of Patti Spadaro’s Single "Glass Shatters"

The Patti Spadaro Band, led by the dynamic and multi-talented Patti Spadaro, has truly outdone themselves with their latest single, “Glass Shatters.” Released on a wave of excitement and anticipation, this powerful anthem resonates deeply as a tribute to the strength and resilience of women, inspired by the historic swearing-in of the first female Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris. Spadaro’s knack for capturing monumental moments in her music shines brightly in this track, making it both heartfelt and inspiring.

“Glass Shatters” began to take shape in the winter of 2020-2021, a time when Spadaro was profoundly moved by the historic event of the first female Vice President’s inauguration. This significant moment in history sparked a creative fire in Spadaro, leading her to compose what she describes as a “rallying cry” for women everywhere. The song is intended to unite women from all walks of life and celebrate their progress, a message that is both timely and timeless. 

From the moment the first notes hit, “Glass Shatters” commands attention with its compelling arrangement and Spadaro’s signature guitar work. The track features a rich tapestry of harmonies, with Spadaro’s guitar complemented by Anne Celedonia’s evocative keyboard playing. The contributions from background vocalists Cherylann Hawk, Jill Simmons, and Alison McTavish add depth and resonance, creating a sonic landscape that feels both expansive and intimate. Drummer and recording engineer Eric Kurtzrock and bassist Ryan Black round out the ensemble, adding their unique talents to the mix and ensuring that every beat and note drives the song’s powerful message home.

The song’s structure is meticulously crafted, transitioning seamlessly from verse to chorus to bridge, each section building on the last to create a crescendo of emotion and energy. The opening verse sets the stage with vivid imagery and a call to action: “Glass shatters, clear the way / Declare today a holiday.” This sets a celebratory tone, inviting listeners to join in the dance of progress and empowerment.

One of the standout features of “Glass Shatters” is its poignant and inspiring lyrics. Spadaro’s songwriting is both introspective and anthemic, capturing the essence of a significant cultural shift. Lines like “Keep rising up, never giving up / Hear us Roar, Hear us Roar” serve as a powerful mantra, encouraging persistence and resilience in the face of adversity. The lyrics are not just words; they are a call to action, a celebration, and a reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead.

The pre-choruses add a layer of realism and acknowledgment of the challenges faced: “Our heads hurt when they hit the ceiling / Crack by crack it’s disappearing.” This acknowledgment of the struggle makes the triumph in the chorus all the more satisfying. The bridge, with its imagery of a lotus rising from the mud, symbolizes growth and transformation, encapsulating the song’s core message of overcoming obstacles to blossom fully.

“Glass Shatters” is more than just a song; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to the power of music to inspire change and bring people together. Patti Spadaro’s lead guitar and emotive vocals, combined with the harmonized voices and robust instrumentation, make this track a standout in her already impressive catalog. The production quality, thanks to Blue Door Recorders in Pittsburgh, ensures that the local talent and collaborative spirit of the band are beautifully showcased.

Spadaro’s journey from Pennsylvania to Hollywood and back is reflected in the diversity of her influences, which range from Bonnie Raitt to The Allman Brothers. This eclectic mix is evident in “Glass Shatters,” which blends elements of rock, soul, and folk to create a sound that is uniquely Patti Spadaro.

In conclusion, “Glass Shatters” is a must-listen for anyone interested in music that not only entertains but also carries a powerful message. Patti Spadaro and her band have crafted a song that is both a celebration of progress and a rallying cry for continued perseverance and unity. As Spadaro herself says, “If we ‘keep rising up, never giving up,’ progress will continue.” And with songs like “Glass Shatters,” that progress feels not only possible but inevitable.