I’m writing this post way in advance, shortly after Tift Merritt’s new album (See You On the Moon) was released. I’ve been listening to it on repeat and rediscovering exactly why and how much I love this woman. She is a brilliant writer and performer and one of the most sensitive and intelligent artists I follow.

Merritt is a real Renaissance woman. In addition to writing all of her music and lyrics and playing guitar, piano, harmonica, tambourine, you name it, she has displayed her photography in a museum exhibit and hosts a public radio interview show where she interviews favorite actors, writers and musicians about their inspirations.

She’s a sponge for new knowledge and new experiences and that curiosity and introspection shines through on her albums and in her live performances. I can’t say enough about how special she is. If you’ve never listened to her, do yourself a favor and pick up one of her albums.