Natalie Merchant To Play Special Show In London

I, too, have been wondering what Natalie Merchant has been up to lately. According to Glasswerk, the former 10,000 Maniacs lead singer is scheduled to perform and discuss a selection of songs from her upcoming album at the new Free Word Centre in London on Wednesday November 18.

It seems the singer has been researching, writing and recording songs adapted from the works of poets, including Charles Causley, Robert Graves and Gerard Manley Hopkins. The event will give the audience a preview into Merchant’s project before the album debuts in early 2010. The as-yet-untitled album from Nonesuch Records will be Merchant’s first new collection of music in seven years.

Check below for ticket info.

Aside from her gig at the Free World Centre, Merchant has been invited to help commemorate the opening of the 17th year of the London Jazz Festival on Friday November 13th, 2009 in a concert entitled “Celebrating a Century of Song.”

The program draws on significant anniversaries of jazz songs, films, singers and songwriters down the decades. Merchant will be the guest vocalist on two songs with the 40 piece orchestra.

Other Merchant performances includes a solo show at London’s Conway Hall on November 16; her first UK performance in over seven years. The show —An Evening with Natalie Merchant—will showcase material from her forthcoming album, as well as selections from her 28-year career.

Following the Conway Hall solo event, Merchant will perform at the Crossing Border festival in The Hague, Netherlands, on November 20.

Look for further details about the forthcoming album and international tour dates to be announced soon.

Hard to believe it’s been seven years since Merchant last released an album – but it’s good to have her back. The new album definitely goes on the list of Most Anticipated for 2010.

Natalie Merchant / at Free Word Free Word Centre, London

Wed Nov 18, 2009
60 Farringdon Rd, London EC1 (Tube: Farringdon)
www.freewordonline.com
Doors: 6:00pm | Event: 6:30pm
Tickets: free, available from bookings@freewordonline.com
Advance booking essential