Katy Kirby - “Cool Dry Place”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Neko Case, Wilco, Waxahatchee

One of the hallmarks of Katy Kirby’s debut full-length Cool Dry Place is her pitch-perfect songwriting, blending alt country and indie rock traditions with ease, understated but instantly memorable both in verse and chorus. Americana in spirit, Katy Kirby’s music is unexpectedly catchy, a pop-laden foot tapping the gas while still staying connected to pastoral vibes. On top of that, Cool Dry Place finds experimental moments like the sonic chaos that creeps into the brilliant title track like an orchestral swell. There isn’t a weak song on Kirby’s debut as one of her calling cards is the way her tracks move unexpectedly, especially unique given the traditional draw of her musical foundation. (Kevin McStravick)  

2019 Review: Playing a form of breezy folk pop, Katy Kirby’s music is immediately accessible with warmth and familiarity seeping from her debut EP Juniper. It’s nice to hear the hopeful, positive tone in Kirby’s sound given how easily bedroom folk can spotlight heartbreak and yearning. The Texas singer-songwriter takes notes from Laurel Canyon, but ties them sweetly into a red-dirt influence that subtly powers tracks like “Tap Twice” and “Juniper”.