The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will present Natalie Merchant in performance with the ASO at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, 2013.
Natalie Merchant
Photo by Mark SeligerBest known as lead vocalist and lyricist for the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, Merchant’s unique voice captivated a generation of listeners and earned her a place among the nation’s most respected performing artists. During her 30-year career, the prolific songwriter has intrigued with her compelling solo albums, including “Tigerlily,” “Ophelia,” “Motherland” and “The House Carpenter’s Daughter.”
Her latest is “Leave Your Sleep,” which debuted at No. 17 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, on the Billboard Folk Albums chart at No. 1 and on Amazon.com at No.1. With “Leave Your Sleep” she has embarked on a new artistic path, creating songs from her literary inspirations, composed for expanded musical ensembles and orchestras. For this ASC show she will sing her familiar hits, plus new works, with full symphonic accompaniment by the ASO. James Bagwell will conduct the performance, which will take place in the ASC’s Jemison Concert Hall, 1200 10th Ave. South.
Tickets are $76.50, $67.50 and $58.50; visit the ASC online at www.alysstephens.org or call the ASC Box Office at 205-975-2787.