The annual Asbury Park summer tradition known as Jams on the Sand comes to a close today. And as tradition goes they’re going out in a huge way.
Closing out the free oceanfront music series is Kat Wright. The Vermont-based singer is absolutely going to blow the Asbury audience away. Her powerfully soulful voice will harken imagery of the great soul, folk, and R&B singers all within the first note. Her band will floor you with their tight, eclectic stylings. Honestly, listening to Kat Wright sounds as It’s a sound you can almost hear the pops and hisses of vinyl in their sound because it’s such a natural, lived in, and classic sound. But don’t get it twisted, this isn’t a throwback outfit. Kat Wright and her band are a fresh, vibrant band that have big things in their future.
We recently caught up with Kat to talk about her influences, the potential of new music and wisdom imparted onto her by the many music veterans she’s toured and performed with.
You have an absolutely beautiful sound that has a genuine, lived in and organic vibe to it. Can you talk about what artists inspired your sound?
I grew up listening to and loving all genres of music. I still keep what’s in my headphones very diverse. I’m personally influenced by: Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tesdechi, Nina Simone, Fiona Apple, H.E.R., Emily King, Lianne Lahavas, Carole King, Aretha Franklin … I could go on forever. I really love good songwriters! I also grew up seeing a lot of live music and started going to festivals of my own choosing in my teens. So I have a deep appreciation for the way live music can really sweep you away when it’s doing its job.
You’ve opened and toured with a lot of fabulous artists — of those artists who (directly or indirectly) has given you the best advice about music?
A lot of people who are older than us tend to [tell us to] appreciate where were are right now and not wish to be at another level or anything. Many people have said that when things get “bigger” it gets lonelier and less fractured within within the band as well. People have talked a lot about bonding and camaraderie that comes with everyone being in the van together and sharing hotel rooms, etc. That feels true to me for sure.
Your last full length record came out in 2016 — is there new music on the horizon?
Yes! Our new album is being produced by Eric Krasno (Soulive, Lettuce) and is coming out in 2020!
Jams on the Sand has you performing mere yards away from the Atlantic Ocean which is pretty wild. Outside of this, what are some of the more unique venues you’ve performed in during your career?
We just performed at the Navy Pier on Lake Michigan in Chicago which was very beautiful. Also, waterfront park in our hometown of Burlington, VT, looking out over the high peaks of the Adirondacks — can’t beat that and it’s one of our favorite views ever. We just played a great little natural amphitheater called Lime Kiln Theater in Virginia. That was super cool and atmospheric. Also we opened for The Wood Brothers (as a trio) in July at Prescott Park on the Ocean in Portsmouth which was magical. And then again in Portland, ME opening for Guster. We love playing outdoor venues, and playing under the sky.
For anyone who might catch your set at Jams on the Sand, but might not know your sound — what song would recommend people check out beforehand to really “get” what the Kat Wright sound is all about — and why?
“By My Side.” The vocals are very typical to how I like sing — warm and sultry. The horns are very featured as their part is kind of the chorus of the song. It has a sort of throwback vibe which is a nod to our influences, and it also has a great, concise guitar solo. Overal, it’s just vibey!
You’ve dedicated years of your life to performing your music — what is it about performing that you love — that keeps you on the road and touring and writing and recording?
I love meeting people and traveling and just staying fluid. When you travel you have to go with the flow and it keeps me in a good headspace to be ready for anything.
What’s a definitive goal you have for yourself that you want to hit by end of the year?
To write more songs!
