Rarities (1998–2017) cover

Rarities (1998–2017)

Natalie Merchant · 2017

54 min · 15 tracks · rock music

A reflective collection of folk-infused rock, showcasing Merchant's poetic lyricism and emotive vocal delivery.

Why this album works

This album compiles rare tracks and previously unreleased material, highlighting Merchant's evolution as an artist over nearly two decades. It received positive critical reception for its curated selection that appeals both to longtime fans and newcomers alike, reflecting the depth of her songwriting.
Career context
By 2017, Natalie Merchant was in a period of revisiting her extensive catalog after years of solo artistry following her departure from 10,000 Maniacs. This compilation, 'Rarities (1998–2017)', marks her first release since 'Paradise Is There: The New Tigerlily Recordings' in 2015, further cementing her status as a respected singer-songwriter.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 The Village Green Preservation Society Standout 3:22
  • 2 Too Long at the Fair Standout 3:20
  • 3 Order 1081 5:48
  • 4 To Love Is to Bury 3:32
  • 5 Saint Judas Standout 3:46
  • 6 Birds & Ships 2:12
  • 7 The Lowlands of Holland 3:48
  • 8 Sonnet 73 4:12
  • 9 Learning the Game 3:27
  • 10 My Little Sweet Baby 2:28
  • 11 Political Science 2:48
  • 12 Build a Levee 4:43
  • 13 Sit Down, Sister 1:36
  • 14 The Gulf of Araby 7:10
  • 15 Portofino 1:53

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata