Natalie Maines
Album: Mother
Label: Sony
Tracks: 10
Website: http://www.nataliemainesmusic.com

If you are thinking you have heard the name Natalie Maines before, you would be correct. Formerly part of The Dixie Chicks, Maines has decided to branch out into a solo career.

Her debut CD, Mother, illustrates that she has taken an interesting direction; a more alt rock edge, with just a hint of her country roots. Does she pull it off? Undoubtedly, as this collection proves.

Interestingly, the title track, a cover of Pink Floyd's Mother appears on the soundtrack for West of Memphis: Voices For Justice, a benefit album for Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley Jr. and Jason Baldwin, whose story is told in the 2012 'West of Memphis' documentary. Delivered with emotion and passion, it is one of the best covers of a song I have heard in a while.

Also featured, among others, are covers of songs by The Jayhawks, Jeff Buckley, Eddie Vedder and Dan Wilson, all of which are delivered with conviction and just the slightest hint of edginess.

Also interesting is the cover art; simple and stark whilst striking and effective.

I think this is music to appeal to lovers of all kinds of music and regarless of whether you are a Dixie Chicks fan or otherwise. This is a striking debut and I am curious to see where Natalie Maines goes next.

Helen Mitchell