It’s been close to three years since acclaimed local roots outfit Nathan released Key Principles and snagged a Juno award for its tender, haunting melodies. These days, the band can be seen playing large festivals in Australia, various gigs around town and even the upcoming Paralympics.

But what about a new album?

“There will be one, but who knows when?” endearing singer-songwriter Keri Latimer said in a recent phone interview, speaking from her Winnipeg home. “We pretty much slowed down quite a bit. We haven’t been actively writing for a new album yet or anything.”

That’s because most members of the band are focusing on other things in life – like jobs and gardens. And kids.

Latimer – who was seven months pregnant when recording Key Principles – is now a mother of two.

“Being a mom is interesting. It’s a challenge, but it’s totally fulfilling,” the 40-year-old said. “And all the clichés are true: it’s the best thing in the world!”

But it’s also changed the way Latimer approaches music – both at the writing stage and on the road.

“It’s made touring a little bit more pleasant. You’re a little less self-involved,” Latimer said. “You get to go out each night and have your show, but then you get to be with your kids all day long. You don’t go out and party all night long, so you’re healthier.”

The challenge in caring for the delicate creatures, however, comes when the muse strikes. Latimer says she’s no longer able to drop everything and capture a melody or a lyric when inspiration hits her.

“Having to suppress my creative impulses a little bit, that’s hard,” she admitted.

“ And all the clichés are true: it’s the best thing in the world!

Keri Latimer

Still, she’s been writing incessantly and is working on her first solo record that will see the songstress explore the trials and tribulations of her new motherhood role.

What’s to be expected?

“It’s probably going to be more of an intimate, stripped-down record,” she said. “I’m stuck in the roots.”

Latimer is currently demoing the new material but will hit the studio come summer with a projected release date sometime before year end.

As for Nathan, Latimer is confident we haven’t heard the last of them yet.

“We all love playing together. We go at a pace that works for everybody. We’re not in a rush to get anything out soon, but I’m sure we’re all going to play together for years and years to come. For now, we’re just distracted by life.”

Published in Volume 64, Number 21 of The Uniter (March 4, 2010)