After dazzling us with a bright and euphoric array of alt-pop delights these last few years, New York-based artist Kate Brunotts has now returned with her soaring new effort 'PROJECTIONS'.
Lifted from her upcoming new EP 'all caps', which arrives on the 24th September, 'PROJECTIONS' showcases more of that rich and vivid sound she is becoming known for. Jam-packed with ethereal tones, vibrant hooks, and her own captivating voice at the helm, she is truly in a world of her own on this one.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has inspired her most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I’m not sure it falls into the category of traditional instrument, but I’d definitely say my computer or more specifically, my DAW. I’ve played guitar, piano, and ukulele, but nothing excited me quite as much as the endless possibilities of Ableton and my MIDI keyboard.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I have a lot of fond memories with disco music that my parents used to play on Saturday nights. I’ve always loved pop music as well, especially alternative and indie pop.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first single I bought was Avril Lavigne’s “Girlfriend” which continues to be an absolute banger. Lorde’s “Pure Heroine” album really changed it all for me— It was so exciting to see a more demure expression of pop music which I continue to gravitate towards to this day. That album will always be one of my favourites, if not at the top of the list.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I feel like this question applies more to songwriting, but oftentimes I latch more onto the premise of “I wish I could’ve produced that”. Lately, I really like journey of songs in tracks like Christine and the Queen’s “People, I’ve Been Sad”, Maggie Rogers’ “Fallingwater”, FKA Twigs’ “Mary magdelene””, and Grimes’ “4AEM”.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I’m a big believer in creative constraints to jumpstart creativity. Sometimes, that means forcing myself to use a certain amount of samples, or decide the topic of the song before producing it to inform my process.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
My mainstay favorite artists include Lorde, FKA Twigs, and Grimes. Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of Remi Wolf, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, and Caroline Polachek.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Certainly Lorde or Grimes, though I’m afraid if I ever met them I would be too uncool and I’d shatter the facade of a relationship in my head I have with these artists.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Having the potential to soundtrack someone’s most vivid memories.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The industry’s tendency to flaunt false opulence while most musicians lack any form of sustainable financial compensation for their art and work.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Be yourself.
-
Kate Brunotts' new single 'PROJECTIONS' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.