With The Way I Should, Iris DeMent stepped boldly into new territory, delivering a collection that balanced her fierce lyrical conviction with tender vulnerability. Released in 1996, this third studio album from the revered Americana singer-songwriter expanded on her folk and country roots, blending sharp political commentary with deeply personal storytelling.
Backed by a fuller, more contemporary sound and featuring collaborations with legends like Delbert McClinton and Mark Knopfler, DeMent doesn�t shy away from weighty topics. From government corruption ("Wasteland of the Free") to working-class struggle ("Quality Time"), she gives voice to the disillusioned with searing honesty and soulful grit. Merle Haggard lends his iconic vocals to �This Kind of Happy,� bringing a warm, lived-in authenticity that deepens the album�s emotional core.
Yet for all its pointed critique, The Way I Should is just as powerful in its quieter moments. Songs like "When My Mornin� Comes Around" and "Keep Me God" shimmer with grace, hope, and an unwavering moral compass. DeMent�s unmistakable voice anchors every track with a sense of authenticity that�s rare and resonant.
The Way I Should isn�t just an artistic evolution; it�s a fearless statement from a singular voice in American music. Timeless in message and rich in heart, it remains one of DeMent�s most compelling and relevant works.
In celebration of the album�s 30th anniversary, Yep Roc Records is pressing The Way I Should on vinyl for the first time. The album is remastered by Mike Westbrook of Material Mastering and is pressed on Summer Sky color vinyl, limited to 1,000 copies worldwide.