Year of Release: 1995

The former 10,000 Maniacs' songstress has matured - the whimsical pop ditties from her former association have been replaced with some serious songs worthy of note. There are however some lighter tracks on this album, e.g. "Where I Go" and "Wonder", which re-acquaint us with the Natalie we have come to know. These have to be contrasted with the melodramatic "Beloved Wife" and "Seven Years" which whilst good, are a bit too heavy at times (not recommended for those with suicidal tendencies). Then getting back to an even keel there are tracks such as "San Andreas Fault" and "Carnival".

Rating: *****

Date of Review: 13.05.96