Katie Kern - Twilight
Katie Kern is an Austrian guitarist and songwriter. She recently released her double album " Twilight" and "Zwielicht". In the twilight of the times it is difficult to say whether dark night or a bright new morning awaits us. "Twilight" is a musical tightrope walk between wistful nostalgia and socially critical discourse. The diverse themes range from thoughtful ballads to charming Viennese songs and edgy protest songs. Everything overshadowed by the blues of everyday life.
"Twilight" conjures up disturbingly beautiful images from Schrödinger's future: dystopian and at the same time hopeful in terms of the challenges facing humanity. Even if we drag tough shadows behind us, it can only mean one thing - the light is in front of us!
The intro of the opening track Armageddon sets the tone for the whole album. Bluesy yet upbeat number that gives you an idea of Kern's guitar skills and her vocal expression. The title suggests a dark vision and Kern doesn't shy away from that in her lyrics ("if there can be redemption we should take it while we can"). What truly catches the listener's attention are her masterfully executed solos.
"The Crawl" is almost a danceable composition with a catchy rhytm. However, as it is the case with all tracks on this album, there is an ever-present darkness lurking around.
"Angry Jesus" presents an interesting angle of the narrative where the singer places herself in the shoes of Jesus looking back on his actions. Despite its title, the song carries quite an optimistic feel yet there are still thought-provoking lines such as " you talked of love and then you killed some more. That's not what I came down here for..."
"Can't you see your lies will rip this world apart?" - another razor sharp statement, like the entire song called Come up with the Truth. It is as relevant as it gets. Giving an advice to those in power to come to their senses, this seems to be their last chance ever.
"Depression" is one of the most somber tracks on this collection, describing what it feels like to suffer mentally. Not an easy listen lyrically but the intrumentation lights up the theme a bit.
"gonna meet me at the end of the rope..."