Three decades ago, Kristin Hersh left the band Throwing Muses to begin Belly. Shortly after, she released "Hips and Makers", a raw acoustic album. It had a standout duet with Michael Stipe and became Hersh's best-selling record. Even without electronic amplification, the album was full of emotion and intensity.
Come 2023, following the unexpected reunion of Throwing Muses, Hersh releases another acoustic album, "Clear Pond Road". This album dives deep into folk and blues traditions, blending them with Hersh's signature powerful vocal style. Nature-inspired sounds, like bird calls and storm rumbles, give the album a theme of an impending storm.
A highlighted track, "Dandelion", is calm yet impactful. The cello and Hersh's voice touch upon themes of life, loss, and resilience. The lyrics suggest strength and an enduring spirit.
Another track, "Constance Street", is more intense and might remind some listeners of "Nirvana Unplugged". However, its core is unmistakably Hersh, characterized by her poetic lyrics and unique voice.
While "Hips and Makers" had a memorable song in “Your Ghost", "Clear Pond Road" brings the same intensity in its entirety. It reflects Hersh's three-decade journey in the music industry, showcasing that her passion is still as strong as ever.
https://kristinhershfire.bandcamp.com/album/clear-pond-road
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_nqfO2nX8oxnK5d_GlVxDCHPpTPe7TJ8mY
