Neko Case’s New Album Features Diverse Artists for an Epic Sound

Describing Case’s music is often a challenge. Terms like “gothic Americana” have surfaced, yet her sound mainly revolves around diverse tones and tempos, enhanced by her vivid imagery and remarkable voice.

On her album, “Neon Grey Midnight Green,” Case made a conscious choice to collaborate with a plethora of musicians. Featuring a 16-piece orchestra, the track “Match-Lit” alone concludes with an impressive group of 26 musicians.

“I wanted to remind people of the experience of a large ensemble playing together,” explained Case. “While synthesizer sections are enjoyable, I wanted to seize this unique opportunity to work with an orchestra.”

The swirling strings in “Wreck,” for instance, elevate her music to a euphoric level, where listeners can even catch the subtle notes of a harp.

It wasn’t a case of writer’s block during her hiatus; rather, the pandemic affected everyone. Based in Vermont, Case also tours with The New Pornographers, writes for an upcoming adaptation of “Thelma & Louise,” and released a memoir titled “The Harder I Fight the More I Love You” this year.

This memoir delves into her challenging upbringing, detailing her youth in the Pacific Northwest with parents who were unprepared for parenthood. At one point, she was misled about her mother’s death, only to have her reappear unexpectedly.

By her teenage years, music became her refuge. She reflects on her strained relationship with her mother: “I don’t even know her anymore,” Case admits.

In her new song “An Ice Age,” she articulates the pain she confronted, stating, “From her I learned to be cruel… as if there’s no one there.”

As Case gears up to tour with her new material, the impact of her memoir might draw in more listeners. While her management sees initial signs of increased interest, Case remains uncertain.

Colin Dickerman, editor at Grand Central Publishing, believes her memoir reached beyond established fans. The narrative of overcoming struggles resonated with many, leading some to explore her music.

Two tracks from the album pay tribute to friends who passed away, including Dexter Romweber and Dallas Good. The latter inspired “Match-Lit,” where she expertly depicts the metaphorical and literal act of igniting a match.

Case’s songwriting often invites interpretation, allowing listeners to connect personally with her music. “I leave space for the audience to find their own meaning,” she noted.

On tracks like “Rusty Mountain,” she admits that writing love songs often feels futile. Yet, she acknowledges the diversity of love in her work, noting, “Most songs here are love songs”—though not limited to traditional narratives.

Case acknowledges the challenge of avoiding clichés in love songs, especially when the bar for excellence is so high. However, she aims to create inclusive experiences through her music for all listeners.

“I want everyone, regardless of their identity, to feel comforted by the songs,” she states, highlighting her commitment to representation in music.