Meanjin-based folk artist, Maddison Kate's newest single 'More To Me' is a poetic ode to speaking your truth.
Slated to appear on Kate's upcoming debut EP 'What I'd Say To You' (that drops on 8 August), 'More To Me' will intertwine itself around your emotional core with every listen.A velvety shaker rhythm creates a coarse tone that is joined by an enthralling acoustic guitar weaving a magical melody that soothes, washing over the senses like a warm face washer wiping away the day's grime.
Maddison's rustic, yet emotive vocals (that fit somewhere between Joanna Newsom and Kasey Chambers) draw you further into the song's embrace, her voice calmly calling out toxic behaviour while merrily waltzing, the effect akin to salty chocolate.
The song's earthy lushness continues to build throughout, like the embrace of friend you haven't seen in years, with gentle piano and a soaring violin. It's an alt. country, indie folk song that is raw yet authentic, the realness oozing out like romantic heartache that can only heal with the passage of time.
"'More To Me' is a song that brings me so much joy. It felt like it knew exactly how it wanted to be written – almost like it had a mind of its own," shares Maddison.
Ahead of the song's release tomorrow (11 July), today scenestr is delighted to premiere 'More To Me' today. Enjoy.
"The song is a playful way of saying 'I see right through you', and moves like a dramatic waltz. The melody was partially influenced by the wonderful Joni Mitchell," continues Maddison.
"I use whistle tones in the second chorus because I've always been inspired by her unique vocal intervals. It creates this jarring, but fun effect in the song."
An artist who started as a nine year old, Kate has graced stages at Gympie Music Muster and Queensland Music Festival, and last year opened for Kyle Lionhart on the Queensland leg of his Careless tour.
"The way each instrument slid into the energy of this song during the recording process was just magic," adds Kate. "Each part had such an important role in bringing out the song's playful essence.
"The violin is both cheeky and heartbreaking. The piano is lilting yet dramatic. It's truly one of my favourite recording outcomes, because it allowed the song to come into itself."
The 'What I'd Say To You' EP is a four-piece stained glass window to her soul, allowing a glance into her heartbreak, her healing, and her growth, with all the mess and all the magic the journey from teenage years into 20s brings.
"It's about having the courage to let go of who you've been, speak your truth, and feel everything — even when it’s messy."
Maddison has reached the semifinals of this year's Listen Up Music Songwriting Competition, to be held at Black Bear Lodge (Brisbane) on 27 August. The week prior she'll launch her debut EP at The Junk Bar (Brisbane) on 17 August.
