Rising Scottish singer-songwriter Kerri Watt returns this April, with her new EP, ‘You’ – the follow up to last year’s acclaimed debut ‘Who’s Lovin’ Me Now?’
Out again on 25 Hour Convenience Store – the record label from The Libertines drummer Gary Powell, ‘You’ is a development on the Californian pop sound showcased on the first EP, with a step forward in terms of production and songwriting – it’s the sound of an artist finding her sound. “The songs work better together as a collection, and I think they demonstrate my sound in a more cohesive way,” says 22 year old Kerri.
“It’s become much clearer what route I want to do down as an artist. All the songs were written within a few months and I think they sit well together and complement each other.”
Kicking off with the classic sounding lead single, ‘You’ Kerri delivers with building guitars, soulful vocals and an anthemic chorus in which she confidently declares she’s not turning back – “It’s about my weakness for creative types” confides Kerri. “The passion that comes with two creative people, but also the frustrations of feeling like just temporary entertainment. It’s about breaking free from that.” Next is the rock-driven ‘Got My Heart’ about falling for someone hard, whilst there’s also the addictive ‘Paris’, a live favourite from her recent Nina Nesbitt support tour, about romance on the road, and the summer soaked ‘Maybe’ – closing the EP.
And don’t miss the dazzling new video for ‘You’ shot on location in Barcelona. “I wanted to focus on telling the story and with the various references to art and theatre it was important we found a location that had a story of its own.” They settled on Barcelona’s botanical garden ‘Parc del Laberint d’Horta’, complete with an impressive maze, fountains and beautiful Spanish architecture. “It was the perfect location” says Kerri. “And I like that the lyrics from the song are echoed in the setting.”
‘You’ follows Kerri’s debut release, ‘Who’s Lovin’ Me Now?’ released late last year with support from Radio 2 and BBC London, and press coverage everywhere from The Sun, Daily Record, Digital Spy and Shout Magazine to Record of the Day, Glasgow Evening Times and STV. Since then, Kerri’s been working nonstop, with a solo tour, Autumn festival appearances, a store opening and brand tie in with Whitestuff, countless writing sessions, trips to the US and Barcelona, and a full UK support tour with fellow Scot, Nina Nesbitt.
With the EP now on the horizon, Kerri’s getting ready to start the promotion, but still finding time for more writing sessions, including an upcoming trip to Morocco. “I’ve heard it described as ‘a magnet for dreamers’ and with so much culture, art, music and history, it seemed like the perfect place to get inspired.” There’s also a support slot with Ward Thomas next month, and more UK dates, including a return to her routes, with a full Scottish tour. “You can’t beat a Scottish crowd, but the fact that it’s also my home crowd makes for a great gigging experience. Plus it’s important for me to stay involved with people that gave me support when I first started out. I’m proud to be a Scot and am always amazed at the incredible musical talent we have up there. I always want to stay a part of that.”