Chan Marshall--also known as Cat Power [ tickets ]--returns to action in 2003 with her first album of new material in almost five years, and a tour to back it.

The new album, set to be released on CD and double vinyl on Feb. 18, is titled "You Are Free." According to Matador Records, it was recorded in 2002 with engineer Adam Kaspar (Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters).

"You Are Free" is the follow up to 2000's critically acclaimed "The Covers Record," on which Marshall--accompanying herself on only piano or guitar--covered artists including the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Velvet Underground and Smog.

Her last LP of original material was 1998's "Moon Pix," on which she was backed by Mick Turner and Jim White of Australian group Dirty Three.

The name "Cat Power" has nothing to do with the animal, Marshall told LiveDaily in 2000. "Cat Power is actually named after Cat Diesel Power, the truck company," she said. "We didn't have a name, and there was this guy standing there with one of those hats, and that's what we went with. Actually, I like cats, but I'm more of a dog person. I'm in love with every dog I see."