Katy Kirby / Courtesy photo
Nashville-based artist Katy Kirby released her debut record Cool Dry Place in early 2021.
The album quickly became a favorite of mine as I adjusted to staying in. I watched livestream performances from Kirby’s Instagram page and live chatted with strangers on her YouTube video premieres. I posted comments of praise alongside Kevin Morby and Christian Lee Hutson, and I watched the record take off and develop a cult following from my laptop in real time.
Cool Dry Place is the kind of record you want to share.
Who: Fenne Lily / Illuminati Hotties / Katy Kirby
When: 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18
Where: George’s Majestic Lounge
Tickets: $15 at Stubs.net
Kirby’s songs are full of idiosyncratic pop hooks and her lyrics approach common experiences from the sides. Lyrically, Kirby writes about religion, capitalism and relationships through small moments that get at their core.
Cool Dry Place is a concise listen that takes big chances. It’s rare to hear a record without a wasted moment, especially a debut.
Kirby will be at George’s Majestic Lounge on Friday, Feb. 18 when she opens for Fenne Lily and Illuminati Hotties. Doors open at 8:30 p.m., and Katy starts soon after that. I recommend getting there early to see her.
I talked to Katy before the start of tour…
Hi Katy! How are you?
I’m alright! I’m sitting outside a friend’s house in the cold waiting for them to get home, there’s a metal band practicing in the house across the street.
You recently toured with Waxahatchee – how was that? Was there a moment that stood out?
It was really lovely! It’s a bit of a blur but I remember we stopped for an afternoon to see some redwoods in North California on a long drive. It’s as nice as they say it is.
What have you been working on lately?
I’ve been working on becoming a better correspondent, sending a lot of cards recently. Also trying to respond to texts in less than 48 hours.
When you’re touring, what’s the first thing you look for in a new city?
Breakfast or a park. Places to linger freely.
Have you been to Fayetteville before? Is there anything you plan to do while you’re here?
I think I played a house show in Fayetteville in maybe 2014. I don’t remember much, but I know I drank coconut wine for the first time and met a really charismatic Labrador named Missy.
What have you been reading and watching lately?
I just picked up a book of short stories by Ursula K LeGuin that my dad sent me yesterday, and I’ve been semi-watching “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” sometimes when I’m falling asleep.
Tony from Keeled Scales is an old friend of mine. How’s it been working with him?
I’m so grateful I met Tony, he sent a kind email to me in 2017 and he’s been the most consistently supportive label exec one could ever dream up.
You’re about to start a tour with Illuminati Hotties and Fenne Lily – what are your favorite songs by them?
I really like Illuminati Hotties’ new song “Sandwich Sharer” and “I Used To Hate My Body (But Now I Just Hate You)” by Fenne Lily.
Besides touring, what are your plans and hopes for 2022?
I’ve largely given up on making plans at this point, but I guess I hope I get to spend some time near an ocean.
