10,000 Maniacs, In My Tribe

In My Tribe is an absolute gem of a record and a veritable indie classic, the real moment of breakthrough for 10,000 Maniacs. Showcasing Natalie Merchant at the height of her prowess, while she was still insecure and wary of fame, dressing in Salvation Army dresses and performing in barefeet, this record represents the height of indie music in the US in the late 1980's.

It's thought-provoking and folky, taking its references from the jangly guitar sounds of REM and the Athens music scene, having spent time with REM in Athens. The original release of the album contained a sublime cover of "Peace Train" by Cat Stevens, a version which was removed from later pressings after Cat Stevens changed his name to Yusuf Islam and expressed his support for the fatwah against Salman Rushdie. Other classic pieces of beauty on this record include "Like the Weather", a song about depression, "Cherry Tree" which is about adult illiteracy, "Hey Jack Kerouac", an ode to the famous writer, "Don't Talk" about relationship trouble, "A Campfire Song" which features guest vocals by Michael Stipe, and "Verdi Cries" about lying in the bath and hearing opera through the walls.

It's a beautiful album and should be heard by all.