Album Reviews

Album reviews: Natalie Merchant continues her solo journey in style

The alternative singer-songwriter’s ninth studio album delivers on themes of isolation, loss and lack of intimacy

Natalie Merchant: the former lead singer of 10,000 Maniacs has focused on individualistic work since going out on her own

Natalie Merchant: Keep Your Courage (Nonesuch)

After fronting 10,000 Maniacs from 1981 to 1993, lead singer Natalie Merchant left for pastures new while very much in control. She had quit the US band (which remains a viable touring unit, albeit with a different vocalist) because she no longer wished to create art as a team member. True to her word, since 1995 she has been releasing highly individualistic solo work, her creative outlook being that ...