Almost 6 years since her last release, Clementine is celebrated singer/songwriter Merrie’s third solo album and one that marks a slight departure from her two previous albums. Rather than being a straight contemporary folk disc, Clementine is a collection of traditional American songs, interpreted in untraditional ways. The title track becomes the dark ballad that the lyrics suggest it should be, and in general what may look like a traditional and standard list of American classics throws up some powerful interpretations.
Merrie’s vocals are as good as ever, and her voice is a little different to most acoustic singer/songwriters – although her vocals are subdued and controlled there are elements of rockier singers such as Aimee Mann present in her delivery.
Acoustic guitars dominate the disc, but there are some wonderful textures throughout with mandolin, banjo, lap steel, bass and percussion bringing much atmosphere to the generally dark songs.
This is an excellent album, and even though many songs will be familiar the way she presents them is fascinating with the pick of the 11 tracks being Clementine, Lakes of Pontchartrain and Streets of Laredo.

Track listing
1 Down in the Valley
2 Black is the Colour of my True Love's Hair
3 Clementine
4 Streets of Laredo
5 All the Pretty Horses
6 Shenandoah
7 Johnny Has Gone for a Soldier
8 Simple Gifts
9 Wayfaring Stranger
10 Lakes of Pontchartrain
11 When Johnny Comes Marching Home

£13.49