Browsing Tag

Karyn Ann

Karyn Ann became a conduit of justice in her soul-swathed, vintage-hued hit, Big Money, Deep Pockets

Posted on 28 September 2024

Karyn Ann’s latest single, Big Money, Deep Pockets, charts a new path in protest music, one that is paved with honeyed harmonic soul. In an era screaming for transformation, the Portland-based singer-songwriter found herself at the frontline of the resistance against exploitation.

Known for her distinctive cocktail of soulful Americana and perception-shifting lyricism, Karyn Ann set the bar high with her former releases but by channelling the spirit of vintage grooves into Big Money, Deep Pockets, she delivered the revolution we never knew we needed. Ann’s voice, rich with Patty Griffin’s earthiness and the haunting elegance reminiscent of Amy Winehouse, cut through the noise of today’s tumultuous climate.

Since her debut, she has become a notable figure in the Pacific Northwest, gracing stages at prominent venues like McMenamins Crystal Ballroom and festivals from the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival to Portland’s own annual Folk Festival.

In her own words, Ann describes that Big Money, Deep Pockets is as much a modern-day anthem as it is a scathing critique of our times, addressing the pressing issues of climate change, social inequality, and a cry for justice. Transcending the echoes of the frustrations of a polarised society; it seeks to be a catalyst for change.

In a world of fleeting trends and ephemeral interests, Karyn Ann is a timeless icon in the rough.

Big Money, Deep Pockets was officially released on September 9th and is now available to stream on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Karyn Ann released the most affecting Americana single of the year with her latest single, 8 Hours

Posted on 30 November 2023
8 Hours by Karyn Ann

Instead of reinventing the wheel, Karyn Ann spun it in a brand-new direction with her latest timelessly enrapturing single, 8 Hours; a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the essence of Southern gothic magnetism, wrapped in a production that’s swallowed by arcane reverb.

The song is a masterful blend of timeless melodies and a stylistic distortion on the guitars that gracefully wrap around the vocal lines. These elements collectively weave a sonically cavernous landscape that seductively entices listeners into the depths of melancholy that the song explores.

The release, which is sure to resonate with fans of artists as diverse as Chelsea Wolfe to Brandi Carlile, elucidates the disassociation of losing your grip with the latter half of the space-time continuum, a theme that is both esoteric and deeply human.

The emotive lyricism of 8 Hours showcases Ann’s raw vulnerability, a trait that has seen the American songwriter praised and performing at notable festivals and venues. The narrative behind 8 Hours is as darkly compelling as its composition, delving into the hours that went missing when Ann awoke in a stranger’s van, with only a dim recollection of the preceding events. This raw and exposed nerve of a song not only reveals Ann’s prowess as a singer-songwriter but also demonstrates her ability to turn personal tribulation into profound artistic expression. She’s a phenomenon in her own right.

Stream or purchase 8 hours on Bandcamp.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

“Consequence of Fear,” a Rock Journey

Posted on 6 May 2023

Karyn Ann’s “Consequence of Fear” is a powerful rock track that captures the listener’s attention from the very first notes. The song boasts a unique sound that blends classic rock and modern influences to create an energetic and captivating atmosphere. The affected vocals and psychedelic elements give the track a vintage feel that is both refreshing and intriguing.

We have to talk about Karyn Ann’s commanding voice. She effortlessly commands the track with her powerful and emotive delivery, which adds an extra layer of intensity to the already dynamic instrumentation. The lyrics are also a strong point, as they deal with the theme of fear in a poignant and relatable way.

The energy of the song is infectious, with the driving guitar riffs and thunderous drums creating an exhilarating sound that is impossible to resist. The twinkling synths and subtle use of effects provide a unique ear-candy that keeps the listener engaged throughout the entire track.

Overall, “Consequence of Fear” is an impressive rock track that showcases Karyn Ann’s talent and versatility as an artist. With its catchy hooks and captivating sound, it’s a song that is sure to be enjoyed by fans of rock and roll of all ages. Make sure to check out Karyn Ann’s website and social media pages to stay updated on her latest music and performances.

Karyn Ann delivers arcane soul in style in her folk single, ‘Wasting Time’

Posted on 14 October 2021

The Portland-based soulstress, Karyn Ann, released her debut album in 2015; after her sophomore album released in 2018, she started to garner critical acclaim and international airplay for her effortlessly powerful vocals and the emotional depth of her lyricism.

Her latest single, Wasting Time, gracefully captures the collective anxiety around watching the sands of time slip while failing to keep hold of anything that brings intrinsic meaning. After we’ve all endured 18 months of lockdown to some degree, Wasting Time is the perfect playlist staple for anyone seeking a little compassion.

The Americana singer-songwriter’s ability to weave a narrative through emotion, poetry and arrestingly minimal melodies is almost unparalleled. We’re fairly certain that this won’t be the last time that Karyn Ann leaves us mesmerised by her almost arcane sense of soul.

Wasting Time is available to stream on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast