About this album
Where they were
By the time 'The House Carpenter's Daughter' was released in 2003, Natalie Merchant had established herself as a solo artist after her departure from 10,000 Maniacs. This album marked her return to acoustic roots, featuring traditional folk songs that showcased her lyrical depth and vocal prowess following her more pop-oriented earlier work.
Why it matters
This album is significant for its exploration of American folk music traditions and has been praised for its artistic integrity. It received critical acclaim upon release, with publications like Rolling Stone highlighting Merchant's ability to reinterpret classic songs for a modern audience, further solidifying her status as a solo artist.
Essential tracks
- "Which Side Are You On?" — This track serves as a powerful labor protest anthem, reimagined by Merchant to resonate with contemporary themes of social justice.
- "House Carpenter" — Merchant’s rendition of this traditional ballad highlights her ability to weave narrative and emotion, showcasing the dark tale's haunting qualities.
- "Poor Wayfaring Stranger" — This track encapsulates the spiritual yearning present throughout the album, with Merchant’s voice delivering deep emotional resonance.
Release Date
September 16, 2003
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Sally Ann 5:48
- 2 Which Side Are You On? 5:04
- 3 Crazy Man Michael 5:13
- 4 Diver Boy 4:45
- 5 Weeping Pilgrim 4:14
- 6 Soldier, Soldier 3:45
- 7 Bury Me Under the Weeping Willow 3:21
- 8 House Carpenter 6:00
- 9 Owensboro 4:22
- 10 Down on Penny’s Farm 3:43
- 11 Poor Wayfaring Stranger 4:16
