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NATALIE MERCHANT IN CONCERT:
In 2014 Natalie Merchant wowed both critics and fans with a self-titled, self-produced album -- her first record of all-new material in more than 12 years and a triumphant reminder that she remains one of the most influential voices in alternative rock. The former 10,000 Maniacs singer still possesses the same charm and magnetism on stage that made her a star in the ‘80s, enchanting audiences with her signature unadorned style and whirling dancing. Whether she’s performing new songs like “The End” backed by a full symphony orchestra or wending her way through a medley of fan favorites accompanied by only piano and acoustic guitar, Merchant’s perfectly preserved voice and unbridled passion always make for an unforgettable concert experience.
BACKGROUND SNAPSHOT:
Born in Jamestown, NY, Natalie Merchant was encouraged to study music by her mother, who also influenced the budding singer’s development by banning TV from the house. After dropping out of high school and working at a health food store, she started singing for the band Still Life, which eventually became iconic ‘80s alt rock outfit 10,000 Maniacs. Merchant released five critically acclaimed albums with the band -- including the multi platinum-selling LPs “Blind Man’s Zoo (1989) and Our Time in Eden (1992) -- before leaving the band in 1993. She made her official solo debut in 1995 with the album Tigerlily, a critical and commercial success that spawned three hit singles including “Carnival” and “Jealousy”. Merchant has continued to build on the legacy she established with the Maniacs over the course of five more acclaimed solo albums, including a self-titled work released in 2014 – her first album of entirely new material since 2001’s Motherland.
FANS WHO BOUGHT TICKETS SAY:
“Saw Natalie with the Jax Symphony and it was incredible! The pure, beautiful voice is still there. Didn't disappoint and saved her oldies for the end with the piano and guitar - very intimate in contrast to playing with the symphony.”
“She certainly didn't disappoint. Her voice is just as amazing live as it is in studio, which didn't surprise me at all. What a beautiful talent. And a full orchestra is always appreciated.”
“The woman rocked the stage with just a pianist and acoustic guitarist (did not need the other 9,999 Maniacs). She doesn't just perform the songs, she embodies them.”
wonderful concert - N Merchant with the SLSO was a great match as she worked in her older works with new songs from her latest album. Incredibly personable performer whom managed the interaction with the crowd with a natural comfort that surprised me. Truly talented natural performer. Nothing fake about this wonderful woman.
That voice, amazing! The orchestra was amazing as well! I loved what she said to wake the crowd up after intermission.
This was one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to. The symphony was outstanding as usual, but combine them with the voice of Natalie Merchant and it was awesome.
Great performance from Natalie and the symphony put beyond over the top.
beautiful venue,great acoustics.perfect,except for parking.there is no nearby parking,so we ubered.
Natalie’s voice is as amazing as ever. Loved watching her dance all around the stage. Her band is great and of course our SLSO is epically talented. The only thing missing was a few more 10,000 Maniacs songs.
Great show. Natalie is the ultimate performer and story teller. Saw her with my brother and niece over 20 years ago and returned this year. Just as amazing. The symphony added to the already great show.
If you are going to see Natalie Merchant’s Keep Your Courage Tour because you used to be a big 10,000 Maniacs fan, and are hoping to relive your younger days by virtue of some greatest hits revival, this may not be the concert for you. If, however, you are a music lover who seeks to hear a musician whose work has continued to evolve over the years and mature, I could not recommend seeing her more. Her voice is lush, *filled* with emotion and power; she sounds better live now than she ever has! The quality of music that she makes, and of the performance itself, is breathtakingly beautiful. (It’s frustrating to read negative reviews from people who are upset that she isn’t doing more 10,000 Maniacs songs - why not educate yourself and check a few recent set lists prior to purchasing tickets to see whether it is going to meet your expectations first? Just a thought.)
A perfect way to spend Mother’s Day! While visiting from upstate New York, I attended Natalie’s Cincinnati show with my daughter. This show did not disappoint! From the beautiful venue to all the talented musicians on stage it was a magical evening filled with new songs and old. I was pleasantly surprised to hear”Frozen Charlotte”and my all time favorite “Motherland” which brought me to tears. Natalie was wonderful! I hope to see her again soon!
Saw Natalie Merchant, great show! Lines for restrooms were very very long! Two stalls and lots of middle aged women don’t work well. Lines for drinks and snacks were very long! Drinks were expensive but that is to be expected at a concert these days. Staff were very friendly though and the place is old and beautiful, overall great performance!
First of all, your voice is amazing! You are one of the best female artists ever! Your choice of songs to sing was awful. Your negative comments about being in love; huge turn off. I left at the beginning of the second set. Not impressed. I will still enjoy your music that is more uplifting. This was not a good start to date night.
Natalie did not sing one of her popular songs from her older material until the last song before intermission and I did not care. Her voice, and the musicians sounded amazing. I could not believe how good all of those songs were. I saw her in Chicago and when she said, during the show, that she was going next to Milwaukee I considered making the 90 mile drive to see her again.
Natalie and her band were outstanding. The theatre could use some modernization as more washrooms and higher angle for seats.
Started out a little weird when the speaker/monitor popped at the Michigan Theater and I think it made her a little nervous. Her voice is as brilliant as ever and she sang for almost 3 hours!! The intermission was kind of a weird surprise and I think a lot of people were confused by it...seemed like the concert was over after an hour. There was one speaker that kept clicking so it sounded like a record skipping for the first part of the concert; didn't hear it much after the intermission. I would definitely see Natalie Merchant again if she comes to the Detroit area!
I have seen Natalie a few times over the years now. She just keeps getting better and better. She was in a great mood and very playful with the audience. The staff at the theater are great, excellent customer service!
Chicago Theatre is a gem of a venue and well worth seeing, regardless of the concert. That said, Natalie Merchant and her band may have even outshone the theatre! The performance was stellar and the sound was first rate.
Natalie's voice and way of performing is unlike any other artist. I did not expect her voice to be so powerful, gentle, kind and humorous all at once. Several times I got emotional during the concert and I'm not an emotional person. If you're a fan, you must see her live. She is so good on the records, but even BETTER live.
Natalie and band were amazing. Hope she tours more often.
Love love love! Natalie did amazing. The set list was great and the band did a magnificent job. The audience was also awesome with a fantastic vibe.
It was a wonderful night from start to finish. Easy access through security. Stopped at concession stand where a very friendly man to our order promptly. Usher seated us quickly. Natalie came out a little after 8:00 and performed for about 2 hours. Great show. The sound was crystal clear. It was a great evening.
