In many ways, it's like Natalie Merchant never took a seven year absence. In her new album, she still produces intelligent lyrics with lush instrumentation coupled with her elegant voice that just seems to get better with time. Her new album feels like the natural successor to 2001's "Motherland" despite the long gulf of years between the two albums.
The self-titled album's main theme shares much in common with her old song "Life Is Sweet." Many of the songs point to the hardships of life and the importance of enjoying what little happiness we can find and ignoring the bitterness. As things stand now, our hardships seem evident and increasing, and there is nothing that will alleviate it anytime soon. "It's A-Coming" promises change but only after much suffering and upheaval.
Among my favorites are the glorious "Go Down Moses" and the bold "Giving Up Everything." This album is very dense, layers upon layers, and it will not likely win you over at first listen, but it is a very rewarding experience for repeat listenings. It will at least lend you some comfort and, perhaps, a little hope.
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