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Kathleen Coffee
Last night I stopped into the Children's Home Society Coffee House that featured Athens, West Virginia musician Kathleen Coffee. Steve Tuck brought her to town and I happen to have the good luck of being on his email list. When he sent out an invite and description of her that included the magic words "Ani Difranco" my interest was peaked. I checked out Kathleen's myspace page on Friday afternoon and decided that seeing her was a priority!
The Coffee House Atmosphere was great, it was a very intimate setting and I had the best seat in the house - the very comfy couch. I saw some old friends and a long lost family member (I love you sweetie!) and had a great cup of coffee. My friend Jennifer immediately commented that she reminded her of a young Dar Williams. I had to agree - her stage presence and sense of humor were definitely reminiscent of Dar.
She played some great tunes - I particularly liked Paint From the Brain & Harboring. Kat explained that her songs are often inspired by one word for example, Tragedy.
Kat has a self titled album coming out on May 23rd and is having a CD release party in Princeton, WV at the Room Upstairs. Her album was recorded live at the Riff Raff and according to Kat she is committed to keeping that "back porch" sound and not being overly engineered.
As I was watching her I couldn't help but think that I was being let in on a secret - that I was lucky to get to see her in such an intimate setting and that there may be a time when she is playing much larger venues, yep ladies and gentlemen, she's a keeper. I suspect that time will only enhance Miss Kat's young voice and song writing - she is staying on my radar. I'm definitely going to grab a copy of her upcoming CD.
I didn't bring my camera - only my cell phone & used it to take notes and snap a quick shot - the lighting was non-existent so I opted to work with it . Thanks Steve for bringing more amazing music to Parkersburg (and a belated thank you for Anais Mitchell) !
- Roberts Photography
Discography
LPs
kathleen coffee 2008
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Bio
Kathleen Coffee is an Appalachian folk singer/songwriter stemming from
Athens, West Virginia.
Kathleen grew up in a small country town outside of Athens where, on Sundays, she’d sit in church pews and listen to her mama play piano. The little earth child was always seen tapping her little feet and humming to old church hymns.
Throughout all of her school years and even through college, Kathleen started reveal to the public her true passion: singing. Despite recieving two english degrees and a minor in journalism, she began to notice beyond all how her voice moves the hearts and minds of audiences, and she has finally accepted her purpose.
From warming up atmospheres of homes, churches, festivals, art conferences, songwriting workshops, stages, and coffee houses around the Appalachian region, Ms. Coffee is giving her gift to anyone who will listen.
She carries an ever-changing sound with her as a multi-instrumentalist and is sure to entertain an audience with her witty, free-spirit.
As the world evolves, so will this young,
talented female musician. Coffee stands firmly beside her drive of showing people the truth that they deserve: “It is only through music,” she says, “that they will listen.”
Her song-writing is often likened to hints of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Devon Sproule, Tori Amos, and Ani Difranco. Yet, her message and music are one of a kind.
Kathleen finds fulfillment as a entertainer doing gigs for benefits, non-profit organizations, festivals, faith-based gatherings, and well,... .. anyone really.
In fact, she loves to play in the most "decentralized" locations.
Her dream gig is to play for terminally ill children.
Wait patiently, kick your shoes off, and see Kat Coffee shine as part of the core spirit of the ever creative Appalachia region as she sweeps across this world, opening minds and healing the hearts of nations.
www.myspace.com/katcoffee
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