Kathy Zimmer
New York City, New York, United States | SELF
Music
Press
"... moments of instrumental elegance now are intertwined cohesively with Zimmer’s seemingly natural use of story-led lyrical intricacy. It makes Spare Key something of a breakout album, both stylistically and commercially." - Mike Mineo, www.obscuresound.com
"Kathy Zimmer follows the adage ‘write about what you know’ on her Spare Key EP, which contains six autobiographical snapshots from her life delivered in a confident and distinctive vocal warble that, on one of the better tracks – “Summer”, brings to mind a latter day Joan Baez." - www.rock-n-reel.co.uk
"Art folk rocker Kathy Zimmer blends elements from back-in-the-day folk chanteuses like Joan Baez and Joni Mitchell and spunky old country music with an urbanized-classical twist to create a unique and interesting sound. At the forefront in the music is Zimmer's warm, soulful (and powerful) voice which is complemented nicely by her sparse and moody arrangements." - Kristen Sollee, www.bigtakeover.com
“Singer-songwriter Kathy Zimmer’s tunes display an unusual combination of conversational lyrics and crisp, mannered vocals. Tonight she celebrates the release of her new CD, Spare Key.” - www.timeoutnewyork.com
"Sure it’s folk but there’s a sophistication about the composition and instrumentation of ‘Spare Key’. Most striking is the quality of Kathy’s voice." - Mike Hell, www.new-noise.net
"Her voice is deep and inviting, and it is in those sultry pipes that your listening pleasure is attained. There are no histrionics, no squelching or squeaking, just a subtle intent that builds when needed, falls back on quieter sections, yet is always at the helm." - Bill Ribas, www.nyrock.com
"Listening to this after days immersed in new weird Americana is like sticking a lump of Vicks up your nose and breathing in for all you’re worth. Suddenly everything is crystal clear, in tune, beautifully produced and completely straightforward." - David Cowling, www.americana-uk.com
She combines elegant guitar work with rich vocals that engulf songs without smothering them. - Steve Byrne
There is something very special about the songwriting talent of Kathy Zimmer that she presents on this new album "Spare Key" that is uncommon and such a delight to listen to. Heartfelt stories of living everyday life and being in love delivered with a vocal performance that is both honest and direct. Kathy simply sings wonderful lyrics with her unique vocal ability that are mind provoking and easy to believe.
One of the top new folk releases to cross our desks here at Roots Music Report in 2009.
- Robert Bartosh
Featured artist on http://www.jeffbuckley.com under the Peyote Radio Theater section. - Mary Guibert
Discography
The Opening Band--released Nov. 12, 2010. Contains tracks "Fairy Tale", "On My Way to You", "67 Caliente", "Place Holder" and "Winter".
Spare Key--EP released September 2007. Contains tracks "In the Park with George", "My Friend to the End", "Arms Crossed", "Summer", "All I Need" and "Whatever Gets U Thru the Day"
dreamin'--EP released March 2005, contains tracks "Gospel Book," "Winter," "Holy Terror" and "St. Patrick"
Under Your Spell--LP released June 2003. Includes "If I Could".
Photos
Bio
If sophistication and open-hearted goodwill could combine into a sound, what would it be? Enter Kathy Zimmer, a New York City singer/songwriter sporting a richly wistful set of pipes and speaking the language of shell-shocked wildflowers. If you’re looking in earnest for something new, this is it.
There is an essence of burnished class that exudes from Kathy’s voice—think of it in Great Gatsby terms: the money that’s in Kathy Zimmer’s voice is equal parts lost Spanish Armada treasure and rural American box social baked goods.
These two extremes are also present in the songs themselves—beautifully eloquent images fly by while the topics they describe are simple and basic; yes, you too have been there and experienced that… it’s just never before been summed up in quite this way.
Here’s a theory: Joni Mitchell is less jazz and more art song… as is Kathy Zimmer. The girl in the upstairs choir is originally from the rural Great Plains, and she sings to the world with a clear voice and a clear gaze.
Links
