Natalie Merchant has long been celebrated for her distinctive voice, poetic songwriting, and ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Her return with Keep Your Courage after nine years has been hailed as a triumphant and beautiful collection, further solidifying her place as a vital voice in contemporary music. This album, praised by critics and fellow musicians alike, offers a fresh opportunity to delve into the artistry that defines Natalie Merchant Songs.
The accolades for Keep Your Courage speak volumes about its impact. Michael Stipe, of R.E.M., described it as “transcendent…a brilliant and long-awaited return,” emphasizing the unmistakable quality of Natalie Merchant’s vocal delivery and songwriting. This sentiment is echoed by Sun, who boldly declares it “one of the bravest albums you’re likely to hear,” suggesting a depth of emotional and artistic courage embedded within these new Natalie Merchant songs.
Valerie June highlights the almost magical quality of her work, stating, “These songs are alchemy in the highest form possible. We all need to be reminded that such beauty exists.” This points to the transformative power of Natalie Merchant songs, their ability to elevate and inspire through their inherent beauty. Mojo magazine, in a glowing four-star review, notes that Keep Your Courage is not only her first album of new material in nearly a decade but also “her most beautiful in decades,” suggesting a career peak in her songwriting and performance.
The appreciation for Natalie Merchant songs extends beyond critics to fellow artists. Nico Muhly, who grew up listening to her music, acknowledges her profound influence, stating, “her voice has a special place in my conception of how music works.” He praises Keep Your Courage for showcasing her at her “most intimate, evocative, and beautiful,” highlighting the personal and emotionally resonant nature of these new Natalie Merchant songs.
Forbes calls the album “superb…An absolutely stunning collection,” emphasizing the hallmarks of “vintage Merchant” – heart, intelligence, and integrity interwoven with “indelible hooks and gorgeous melodies.” This encapsulates the enduring appeal of Natalie Merchant songs: intellectually stimulating yet emotionally engaging, memorable and beautifully crafted. The Daily Telegraph, also awarding four stars, identifies a core theme within the album, noting its “existential and effusive desire to create unity in a world that can be so alienating.” This speaks to the thematic depth often found in Natalie Merchant songs, addressing complex emotions and social concerns with sensitivity and insight.
René Goiffon simply states it was “well worth the 9 years wait….achingly beautiful, the best album she’s ever done,” a powerful endorsement of the enduring quality and impact of Keep Your Courage within her extensive catalog of Natalie Merchant songs. The Line of Best Fit further emphasizes her meticulous approach to music, observing, “Merchant has never been one to do things half-heartedly, but every note and detail here feels deeply considered in a way that goes beyond her own strict standards.” This highlights the dedication and artistry that underpin every Natalie Merchant song, ensuring a high level of quality and thoughtfulness.
Classic Pop notes the admirable quality of her selective album releases, stating, “It’s always been admirable that Merchant only released solo albums when she felt like she had something to say. Keep Your Courage certainly fits that bill, while being a welcome return to form to boot.” This underscores the integrity and purpose behind her music, reinforcing the idea that each collection of Natalie Merchant songs is a meaningful statement. Mark Radcliffe from BBC Radio 2 describes her as “A literate, observant, thoughtful songwriter, champion of the dispossessed, admirer and interpreter of folk songs and sounds,” recognizing the diverse facets of her artistry and the socially conscious elements often present in Natalie Merchant songs.
Finally, Peter Asher, CBE, a long-time admirer, concludes, “I have been a persistent fan of Natalie Merchant for several decades – but this may be the best album she has ever made. With classically precise arrangements and production, elegantly poetic lyrics and emotionally stirring vocals she takes us on a unique and memorable journey.” This powerful closing statement from a respected figure in the music industry reinforces the exceptional quality of Keep Your Courage and its place within the remarkable body of Natalie Merchant songs.
In conclusion, Keep Your Courage is not just a return for Natalie Merchant, but a powerful reaffirmation of her artistry. The album, filled with compelling Natalie Merchant songs, is a must-listen for long-time fans and new listeners alike, offering a rich tapestry of lyrical depth, melodic beauty, and emotional resonance that defines her enduring musical legacy.
