Search - Natalie Merchant :: Ophelia (Jewel)

Ophelia (Jewel)
Natalie Merchant
Ophelia (Jewel)
Genres: Country, Alternative Rock, Folk, Pop, Rock
 
  •  Track Listings (11) - Disc #1

Miss Natalie needs to lighten up. Ophelia's a pretty heavy record, in terms of both the thick, string-heavy production and in terms of her protracted, pretentious songs. Merchant has a beautiful voice but she bogs it down ...  more »

     
   
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CD Details

All Artists: Natalie Merchant
Title: Ophelia (Jewel)
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 2
Label: Elektra / Wea
Original Release Date: 5/19/1998
Release Date: 5/19/1998
Genres: Country, Alternative Rock, Folk, Pop, Rock
Styles: Traditional Folk, Singer-Songwriters, Vocal Pop, Adult Alternative
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 075596227025

Synopsis

Amazon.com
Miss Natalie needs to lighten up. Ophelia's a pretty heavy record, in terms of both the thick, string-heavy production and in terms of her protracted, pretentious songs. Merchant has a beautiful voice but she bogs it down with weighty themes that walk around in flashy clothes without going anywhere. She's even got, gulp, Tibetan lyric translations on "Effigy." It's telling that the best track here is the simplest--a lovely reading of an 1887 parlour hymn, "When They Ring The Golden Bells." Its genteel acoustic backdrop perfectly sets off Merchant's voice--and its the only time she sings with a passion that doesn't feel pretended. Guests include Daniel Lanois and The Innocence Mission. --Michael Ruby

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CD Reviews

My favorite CD Natalie put out...
smiling.behind.blue.eyes | MI, USA | 12/21/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"I didn't care much for Tigerlily (except Carnival and to a lesser extent, Wonder), but I listened to Ophelia on repeat for the better half of a year! This is a mature and thoughtful album. The song type isn't incredibly varied (they are all rather serious and slow), but if you like lyrics to carry a song, this is your kind of album."
The best Natalie album
Alessandro Filippini | Pistoia, Italy | 02/26/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"I think "Ophelia" is the best Natalie Merchant album; I love every song on it, in particular "Ophelia", "Life is sweet", "Kind & generous", "Break your heart", "King of may", "Thick as thieves", and every song is a jewel by itself; I strongly love this album; I think Natalie never surpassed it with her other albums; I saw her in concert in Milan, years ago, and she is an excellent performer."
Melodic, soulful singing
Leigh Sills | 01/17/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)

"Normally I only listen to pre 80s music since much of mainstream pop was taken over by photogenic video artists who were average or at worst, could barely carry a tune. It's nice to hear a modern artist who takes care of the lyrics and arrangements. The use of different instruments enhances her soulful vocals. I'm tired of dancing electronically enhanced pop stars and it makes me feel optimistic that a talented artist can still rise to the top."