– It’s A Purr-sonal Journey For Kitten’s Chloe Chaidez
Boxx Magazine | It’s A Purr-sonal Journey For Kitten’s Chloe Chaidez
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It’s A Purr-sonal Journey For Kitten’s Chloe Chaidez
Joyce Sparks July 2, 2014
A new-age burst of energy mixed with ’80s badass rock typifies the sound of Kitten’s most recent, self-titled album. The band (which was formed in Los Angeles in 2009) is fronted by 19-year-old singer Chloe Chaidez, who calls this fourth album “classic.” This time around, she wants to make a clear statement: She’s making music her way.
Kitten’s first album Sunday School was more guitar driven and rock-based. As Chaidez found her style, her music took on a laid-back tone, still lined with a melodic voice, drums and guitar riffs for that ’80s feel. After the release of the second album Cut It Out, Max Kuehn (drums), Elvis Kuehn (synth/guitar) and Zach Carper (bass) quit. Since 2009, Kitten has gone through nine band members. Chaidez is okay with that, though—it allows her to continually make music as freely as she desires.
In 2014, after the Charli XCX tour, former band members Waylon Rector and Bryan Deleon announced that they would be rejoining Kitten, only to announce a few months later that they would be leaving again. This album, as Chaidez explains, is a journey of different sounds and musicians, as well as the evolution of her music. “There were a lot of influences that went into the process just because of the time it was made,” says Chaidez. “I really don’t think I knew exactly what I was doing at the beginning of Kitten. I knew I would sing and play the guitar, but as far as a musical identity, I didn’t think I had formed one yet. Now, I understand my thoughts and how I want it and that was a really big moment for me.”
Chaidez is most anxious for people to hear “Cathedral,” which she is proud of lyrically and “Why I Wait,” the last song she added on the album (it’s an instrumental produced by her brother). Chaidez says it struck a chord with her, with a fresh sound that she had mixed into the album. With breathy whispers over the microphone, her voice blends in perfectly to add the element of suspense in what she might say next. “Devotion,” the peak love song on the album, delivers a different option to listen to, as Chaidez sings, “Is it love/ Or just an opportunity.” The record is based on feel and groove, referencing artists such as Prince.
That rich voice and edgy stage presence makes Chaidez’s ’80s influence easily noticeable. Her father (who was a drummer during the early stages of the punk scene) was one of her first influences, followed by bands like No Doubt and Hayley Williams of Paramore, both whom she’s had the opportunity to open for. “It always feels pretty surreal to work with a band that you are a fan of,” says Chaidez. “Gwen Stefani was unreal on stage and Hayley was incredible as well. I felt like I got to see all the really strong and iconic females. They were supportive of what I was doing, which was amazing.”
Kitten’s self titled album was released on June 24th. Chaidez is most excited about getting on the road and playing the music live for the fans to hear. “This project is what I thought was good enough to put as a final record. I’ve been waiting for this moment.”
Check out Boxx’s video interview with Kitten.
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