Katie Thompson - Album Review: Bittersweet
Bittersweet represents Katie Thompson’s return to recorded music after an eight-year hiatus - bittersweet in itself. Here Thompson presents a more developed and mature aesthetic than her previous releases. The album hints at her journey during her absence: the highs, lows and everything in between. Introspective and personal songs reach the listener profoundly through Thompson’s intimate vocal performances.
Thompson puts her best foot forward on her first track I Was Once Your Everything (see my five-star review for this single). This powerful and well-written track is a definite highlight of the album and sets the scene for much of the album’s sound – a lush and full presentation of folk-rock. Though it’s a strong song, I wonder if the intensity of this track would have been better suited to later in the album rather than used as an opener. First single and lone cover on the album, Alcohol And Pills follows. Considering the strength of her writing including a cover seems somewhat unnecessary, although it doesn’t sound out of place among Thompson’s originals.
Take Me Back is a wistful ode to the simplicity of youth. Waiting brings back the theme of romance ending in a relationship. It expresses the tension in deciding if there is still value in holding on through turbulence. This theme is neatly met by the next track Rough Seas: “If I’d have carried on through those rough seas, who knows what would become of me, I could be sailing the seven seas, or keeping Davy Jones company”. Precious Little Moments lends the listener some solace in a sweet and dreamy lullaby to the small joys of motherhood.
Seven tracks into this poignant journey we are abruptly met with Straight Talkin' Woman. The performance is impressive, and there is no question that this upbeat gritty country style is well within Thompson’s diverse skill set, yet it feels late to introduce such a radically different tone. I would have loved to have heard it earlier on the album. The narrative element in this album may have been enhanced by some tweaks to the track-list.
Rock & Roll is my favourite song on the album. Taking it down low, this song brings a dusky soul, thick ambience, and stunning vocal performance. This song has me transfixed; those who connect to this track will be rewarded many times in turn. It Ain’t Easy is a spacey and hypnotic song reminiscent of Mazzy Star. A strong ending full of movement and sway, tying up the album nicely.
Bittersweet delivers everything it promises. There are some real hard hitters in here, backed up with understated, intimate vocal performances. Whilst both the mix and the performances are very professional, at times instruments crowd each other and invade the space of the vocal. There is a little fat on the album, and the overall sound is a little washy with reverb at times for my taste. At times I felt that the drums did not serve the songs as well as they could have. The boldness of the intimacy offered in these songs is a credit to Thompson as an artist and performer. She presents as a strong, vibrant, beautiful woman.
The album is due to be released on Friday September 6th, 2019. It’s not too late to sign on to Thompson’s ‘album experience’ to hear the album early, unpack the stories behind the tracks and peak behind the scenes.
About Katie Thompson
Her 3rd studio album Bittersweet saw her as a finalist for Best Country Song & Best Country Artist at the 2020 NZ Country Music Awards. This has solidified her position as a prominent figure in the New Zealand country music scene.
Her accomplishments extend to her impressive stage presence, having opened for legendary artists such as Sir Elton John in 2011 and recently captivating audiences as the opening act for Don McLean at the Christchurch Town Hall in May 2023.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Katie Thompson
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