Natalie Merchant shows off her vocal talents in "Ophelia." The songs all seem to speak directly to the soul, I am a lyrics-person, and I've looked up many of the tracks to try to better understand where Natalie was singing from/about.
Ophelia is a great opener, and from there to the last almost spiritual song, this album is dope.

Despite bad reviews from many professional reviewers (read: hacks) I bought and listen to this album constantly. Of all the complaints I've heard, most are that the album is too soft. To which I reply: "What the f--k were you expecting? Strapping Young Lad? Gansta-rap Natlie? Nat-M in da house?" Seriously, I have no idea where the complaint that a Natalie Merchant album is "too soft" comes from. It's like calling an industrial album over-produced or a rap album too simple. Regardless, I think the main aversion peple have to the album is that many of the songs are very, very sad and very very dark in subject.
People that hold this aversion, in short, suck.
The songs are beautiful and aranged to lull you into paying attention to the lyrics, which is kinda the point of being a singer/songwriter. The lyrics are maynard-worthy, naturally and contain enough thoughtful eloquence and raw emotion to balance eachother out but remain effecting to the listener.

I highly recommend this album to anyone who appreciates honest art in their music, as opposed to simple accessability. To those who value radio-singles and mass appeal instead, I recommend a timely suicide.

I love this CD, when I first got it I listened to it constantly and I still listen to it often (2 years later). The songs are mostly ballads, but they are so good to listen to. My favorites are Life is Sweet (the song that made me buy the album), King of May, and Ring the Golden Bells. I would definitely recommend this album!

A Gem In A Class Of Her Own Baby Excellent Masterpeice

natalie's best ever just leson to track 5 i really love that song going though a devorce the words and the music just set how i feel...i have been treated so wrong i been treated so long as if i becoming untouchable ,.the words are very much moving and she will touch your heart with this cd buy it now..
I need the darkness need the sweatness need the sadness need a lullaby need a kiss goodnite angel sweat love of my life o i need this..this song i will always love forever thank you natalie for this..i will name my frist girl after you..