Kat's music room

Shine On

2012-02-12T17:27:00.000Z

Thanks to everyone who came along last night.

January playlist!

2012-01-14T23:12:00.001Z

Not music released in January, but as my moods change so frequently, it's what I'm listening to and loving right now (hope to do this every month this year..) - as always, an eclectic mix across decades and genres..

Foster The People - Warrant
Emily Haines & The Soft Skeleton - Mostly Waving
Joel Plaskett - Rollin', Rollin', Rollin'
Tori Amos feat. Natashya Hawley - Job's Coffin
One Republic - Good Life
Lisa Hannigan - Sea Song
Kelly Clarkson - Already Gone
The Beatles - Because
DJ Earworm - World Go Boom (2011 mix)
The Bird and the Bee - Polite Dance Song
Goldenhorse - Fish
Vanessa Carlton - Fairweather Friend
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Fancy
Robyn - Get Myself Together
Patti Griffin - Moon River

xxx
K

Out of the Bedroom - Featured Artist

2012-01-09T14:07:00.000Z

I hope everyone had a fantastic break over the holidays - 2012 is going to be an exciting year, we hope!

My next gig scheduled is the 11th February, as the featured artist at Out of the Bedroom, Edinburgh's longest-running Open Mic night..

Best place to get details is Facebook or my Reverbnation page. Please RSVP and come along! The venue is great, there will be some talented musos on the open slots (8 available, so come at 7:30pm to sign up if you want to play!) - it should be a fun night.

Other than this, I am focusing on writing and some recording for January.

I also have a few tracks appearing in a BBC Three show, which I will announce soon - exciting!

xxx

Kat

House gig: December 2nd

2011-11-27T18:46:00.002Z

Come along!

Writing writing writing..

2011-09-11T15:30:00.000+01:00

I feel a bit torn at the moment between writing and planning what will be recorded further/tinkered with more on the new EP. I'm pondering a poll with some demo clips to let you all decide what should be included. So far I'm looking to book in some good chunks of recording time for October to really polish what I have.

It won't be an expensive EP, I just want some new tunes out there and to have something more to offer at gigs. I'm incredibly proud of Hiding, but it's 5 years ago now, so freshness is needed.

I love my fans, I love Facebook and Twitter and how easily it is to interact. I thank you for listening, as always, and can't wait to send these new tunes your way.

I'm also going to be exploring gigging with a band, and have met some great musos lately.

...wish I knew some brass musicians, though! so many recording ideas...

Wednesday's setlist

2011-06-09T22:22:00.001+01:00

Hiding
Forward
Wellington
Forever Yours
Find the Light
With You I Belong

I swear I did not mean each song to be longer than the previous! (Though "Wellington" technically is "[Hello I'm in] Wellington")

Edinburgh Unplugged

2011-05-23T15:01:00.002+01:00

I am the opening Act from 8pm - come along!

The Listening Room

2011-02-10T10:38:00.003Z

Well after a few months off in the snow, and 3 fantastic weeks at home in New Zealand, I returned to Edinburgh and we quickly made plans for our move to our new home, which has a perfect space to set up my new studio. I'm really excited to get that underway and the recording space set up, so that I can get back to work and get some new tracks up ASAP. I should have tracks up in March, and here is also the next gig!

Sunday March 13th - Featured act at the Listening Room (Blue Blazer)

2 Spittal Street, Edinburgh

Open mic from 8pm - come along and play some tunes!

I will be on at approximately 9:15. Look forward to seeing you there.

xxx

Kat

Two gigs next week!

2010-10-20T09:43:00.001+01:00

Exciting plans for next week!

First I play at The Lot Acoustic Showcase on Wednesday 27th October.

It's from 7pm at The Lot, Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Should be a great evening.

Then...

I'm extremely excited to be involved in a Leonard Cohen tribute evening at the Captain's Bar on Saturday 30th October.

I hope to see some of you at either/both!

Electric Circus gig tomorrow night!

2010-09-10T14:31:00.002+01:00

Gig tomorrow night -

7pm doors

Electric Circus on Market Street

Awesome night out!

Dress theatrically!

Secret CDs at Phoenix Cellar Bar

2010-08-08T01:16:00.002+01:00

Hopefully some of you Edinburgers (and visitors) can make it!

Fanbase update

2010-07-27T14:03:00.003+01:00

My lovelies!

So after a little bit of Facebook advertising, my fanpage has a new shiny total of 294 fans. 851 listeners have been streaming my tunes on Last.fm and 150 folks have been on my new ReverbNation page, playing my tunes 70 times. I'm #16 on the ReverbNation pop charts for Edinburgh, and the gig bookings are coming in, being arranged, and looking very fun.

If you'd love to see me play in a town near you, speak up! If you'd love me to cover a favourite track, let me know.

And don't forget the site (I'm trying to make it more interesting soon!) at http://www.katmckenzie.com and I'm on Twitter, too!

I also hope you enjoyed the video I posted recently, where I play a little bit of what I'm working on... watch it here.

As always, thanks for listening, keep following, and I promise to deliver.

Kat

Acoustic Edinburgh

2010-05-31T15:59:00.000+01:00

Most of you who follow Facebook/Twitter, etc, will be aware, but tomorrow night I am playing a short set at Acoustic Edinburgh.

Acoustic Edinburgh (at the Medina bar at 45-47 Lothian Street) is a monthly evening of great music from local artists.

Doors open at 7:30 for an 8pm start, and it should be a great night.

Hope to see some of you there!

::May12:: Progress Report

2010-05-12T11:13:00.003+01:00

I have kinda missed doing these updates!

For those of you who just follow the blog, I'm more up to date with my Facebook and Twitter (both on the sidebar) than I am here, and I apologise.

It has been a whirlwind of a time lately. After the piano arrived I had a trip to Australia planned with family, so that took up a few weeks of my time, but I am back now and on a writing schedule. Now that I'm into my 2nd year in Scotland, the gigs are going to be coming through, the songs will be written, and hopefully hopefully, the album will continue as planned.

What I'm working on...

In progress:

Call Them In

Gone

Trigger
On the Line

Hello, I'm in Wellington

Any more and my brain might explode. A few untitled pieces are also floating around; half-finished morsels, lines and tunes. I'm thrilled to be back in the full swing of creativity, and can't wait to share some of it with you.

♥

Kat

New layout.

2010-03-13T11:35:00.001Z

I'm playing a bit with Blogger's new Template Designer, so you may find some changes around here too. I hope you are enjoying the site.

Please sign up to the mailing list here!

Hopefully have a tune or two up in the next few weeks. The new piano is fantastic!

xx
K

New website!

2010-03-07T15:55:00.002Z

Lovelies!

My new website is up and running at:

http://www.katmckenzie.com

Please check it out! Much more to be added soon!

♥

Kat

Artist woes.

2010-01-15T12:36:00.000Z

So I don't really use this blog/site as a place to express what's really going on. Mainly because I already have that other blog, and now the Twitter, and I don't want to seem like one of those musicians who is constantly spouting out rubbish on the internet.

But 2009 was a tough year for me as a musician, because I didn't create any music. I think every artist needs a break from things, but I'm now at the point where I feel like the things I would usually convey and try and put to music to express myself are building up inside and waiting to come out.

I relocated continents and hit some financial difficulties, and had to give up my piano in the move (as I was expecting to get a new one fairly quickly!) - now nearly 9 months later, it still hasn't happened, but I am putting all of my energies into making it happen. 2010 is going to be a positive year of making some things happen.

As always, I appreciate you being here and I wish I had something to give you. But I promise you, with patience (and a little cash), it hopefully won't be too far away at all.

Thanks, guys. Really.

♥

KM.

26 days and counting..

2009-10-04T19:33:00.003+01:00

..until I get my new keys and will be able to complete recordings.

Album release before my birthday, I suspect! I'm hoping to spend nearly 6 months getting the record complete and perfect, with a few song releases here and there beforehand.

You'll also notice that http://www.katmckenzie.com now points here, as the domain expired and I wasn't using my old host too much.

MySpace is still going to be the best place to find new tunes.

Also watch this space for information about gigs in the new year.

Updates will follow, patience, my pretties..

::May15:: Progress Report

2009-05-15T19:08:00.002+01:00

Not a lot of changes, but I have just moved countries (hemispheres!), so bear with me..

In progress:

Cut it Out
Gone

I Love You So Much, I Hired a Ninja to Kill You [to record]

Call Them In
Trigger
Peace, My Love
Lay Her Down
Arise
Blame Dave
On the Line [to record]
Get Yourself An.. [to record]
The Alphabet Song
(I Wish I Was) Ben Folds

Covers

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):
Goodbye to You

Alive
Untitled [Waltz]

Dark Horse

Hello, I'm in Wellington
A Thrill
Rush
Fake

♥

Kat

::February22:: Progress Report

2009-02-22T01:01:00.002Z

In progress:

Gone

I Love You So Much, I Hired a Ninja to Kill You [to record]

Call Them In
Trigger
Peace, My Love
Lay Her Down
Arise
Blame Dave
On the Line [to record]
Get Yourself An.. [to record]
The Alphabet Song
(I Wish I Was) Ben Folds

Covers

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):
Goodbye to You

Alive
Untitled [Waltz]

Dark Horse

Hello, I'm in Wellington
A Thrill
Rush
Fake

♥

Kat

::December4:: Progress Report

2008-12-04T02:04:00.002Z

In progress:

I Love You So Much, I Hired a Ninja to Kill You

Call Them In
Trigger
Peace, My Love
Lay Her Down
Arise
Blame Dave
On the Line
Get Yourself An..
The Alphabet Song
[I Wish I Was] Ben Folds

Covers

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):
Alive
Untitled [Waltz]

Dark Horse

Hello, I'm in Wellington
A Thrill
Rush
Fake

♥

Kat

::October31:: Progress report

2008-10-31T08:19:00.002Z

In progress:
I Love You So Much, I Hired a Ninja to Kill You
Trigger
Peace, My Love
Lay Her Down
Arise
Blame Dave
Alive
Untitled [Waltz]
On the Line (re-recorded finally!)
Get Yourself An.. (same deal)
The Alphabet Song
[I Wish I Was] Ben Folds

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):
Dark Horse
Hello, I'm in Wellington
A Thrill
Rush
Fake

♥

Kat

News!

2008-10-31T06:12:00.001Z

So. An album is in the works, which is exciting. Expected release date is March, but I'll keep you updated in that. For now I'm going to get some old tunes fixed up, some promised tunes delivered and some new tunes written.

I'm also working on a series of unconventional covers, so if there's anything strange you want me to try, let me know.

I better get some CDs sent to CD Baby as well, they appear to have sold out of the EP!

Puts a smile on your dial..

xx
Kat

Operation Melody

2008-07-02T11:27:00.002+01:00

Well I did alright last year. Considering my mad life, I'm rather impressed that I got as much done as I did. It's less than I'd like to have out, but it was an effort. And I intend to be more focused this year.

My list is just as long as it was below, and I am continuing to add to it. I'm giving myself a bit of a writing boot camp over the next 12 days (as I am not working), and we'll see what comes out.

I'll keep updating if you keep listening...

xxx

Kat

You sexy thing, yeah.

2008-05-04T04:07:00.000+01:00

xx
Kat

Farewell

2008-05-01T06:40:00.001+01:00

An update, while you're waiting on progress from that list a few posts back..

Farewell is now the first track on my MySpace.

xx

Kat

Progress report

2008-03-12T23:23:00.004Z

Hello, friends.

Kat has let her boyfriend take over all of her time. That, and drinking. And maybe her broken guitar strings. She would like to formally apologise and announce the upcoming release of the following tracks:

OM 17

I Love You So Much, I Hired A Ninja To Kill You

OM 18:

Peace, My Love

OM 19:

Lay Her Down

OM 20:

Blame Dave (Jingly Jangly)

OM 21:

The Alphabet Song

OM 17 was due early-mid Feb, so 5 songs puts us about right. She can't guarantee they'll all be up at once or that she can even give you dates, but they are all coming very soon. She'll try and get them updated before her boyfriend leaves the country. Then we can all rejoice in the loveliness that will be depressing "I'm all alone" songs.

Are you excited?

One step forward

2008-02-01T05:15:00.001Z

So I'm on dialup, kiddies! well for a week at least. Forward is uploading to MySpace in a painfully-slow fashion, but check tonight, it'll be there.

I'll put Week 17's post up in just a sec. When it lets me. Man, it feels like 10 years ago.

xx

K

I am alive. Just.

2008-01-28T08:50:00.001Z

I spent two weeks travelling the US of A and following my heart, and I now am back into the swing of things. Yes, Operation Melody will continue, in the same erratic and unpredictable nature as before. A post about the next track will be up by Friday, and I'll fix the links that are down. Yes, I know. They're driving you nuts.

You are all awesome, however. I wouldn't do this without the small fandom and input I receive.

xxx

Kat

Getting started again

2007-12-23T03:29:00.000Z

We are all moved into the new apartment, and the studio is all connected, and I feel that my forced hiatus from the internet is finally over.

Expect some new music in 2008. I don't think anything creative will be able to be processed before then. Thanks so much for coming by.

Happy Holidays! Be safe, catch you soon.

xx

Kat

OM16: Forward

2007-12-11T00:56:00.001Z

Forwards:

Forward
(Link will pop)

The new place has already sunk into me a little. This link won't work for a day or two while we sort out the site issues, but check MySpace later on for it, it'll be there. Done and dusted 9/12/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

My site is down.

2007-12-07T07:01:00.000Z

But MySpace is still going strong, and lets me have 6 tracks up now. I currently have 5 up, saving the 6th spot for...

This week's Operation Melody (#16):

Genre/Theme/Style: A tune about my new apartment.

Song title: TBD

Running time: TBD

Up by Monday.

xxx

K

Thanks.

2007-11-28T22:32:00.000Z

Thanks for your compassion lately.

Thanks for your continued interest.

Thanks for your patience.

I am getting back into things this week. Expect a new OM post soon, with the track up next weekend (7th-9th Dec). I am still also hoping to re-record a few things, get more of that list done. I am surrendering my fanciest piece of equipment (the Roland keys) to its owner this Saturday, so hopefully lay down something before then.

xx

KM

2007-11-17T04:47:00.001Z

Well I did say "try".

2007-11-14T08:33:00.000Z

Something new will be up tomorrow night.

xxx

Kat

Oh technology.

2007-11-05T01:30:00.000Z

Anyone else find it rather amusing that I uploaded OM15 to the wrong directory and then tried to link to it as #16?

I have had a rather productive few days, there will be 4 links active below as soon as they are done uploading, so make sure to check it out. I am also going to add Oh... and Bliss to MySpace shortly.

ETA: So 3 are up - Oh..., a new track, Bliss, which is a b-side, and a new recording of Universe. Hopefully work on a few more through the week, with a new song Friday morning? I'm in Sydney for the weekend, so I will do my very best.

xxx

K

OM15: Oh Technology (and extras)

2007-11-03T01:45:00.000Z

Oh Technology:

Oh Technology
(Link will pop)

A little tune about my technology woes. Done and dusted 1/11/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007. Link will be active shortly.

-----

But hey! we have power. The following list will turn into links over the next few days (I don't work til Tuesday). It's also in code, as some of them are new, others are covers. And some you will recognise, as they are older songs that have re-recordings. Not all of this will be accomplished this weekend, obviously, but I will repost the list in another entry, with the progress.

I Never Meant
Rush
Farewell
Bliss [b-side]
Fake
Universe [Re-recording]
Bluebird
Exit
Standing
KP

I'm also now taking suggestions for week 16, which will be available next weekend, the 10th-11th November. How are you liking Writing Me? I find that I keep returning to listen to it...

xx

K

Power supply

2007-10-28T10:06:00.000Z

There needs to be a song about my luck with technology. Seriously.

This week's tasks

2007-10-22T06:49:00.000+01:00

So I've had a few emails about the state of The Cover, as it from now shall be known. I had to throw out what I'd dabbled with, because it was in the old (crashed) software, but please know that I am working on a few tracks.

I've also had enquiries about tracks such as Bliss, Farewell, and a better recording of Bluebird or Universe (which is a personal favourite). So this week, instead of being a new track (and apologies on last week, it just well, didn't happen with all the house-hunting going on), I'm going to do my best to get at least 2 of these up for you, so you at least have a tune to hear!

Still not telling what The Cover(s) are, though. You shall wait and see.

xx

KM

OM14: Hymn

2007-10-15T04:32:00.000+01:00

Hymn:

Hymn
(Link will pop)

Done and dusted 15/10/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

I'm now taking suggestions for week 15. I'll try and work on the cover tonight. And if you go down to the Writing Me post, that link is active now as well.

xx

K

Poll!

2007-10-14T08:33:00.000+01:00

I am curious to know what your thoughts on the first 10 OM songs released (tracks 1-3, 5, 7, 8-12). The quality started out a little rough, the songs have been loved and hated by me all at once.. but what's your take?

more at twiigs.com...

OM13: Writing Me

2007-10-14T08:28:00.001+01:00

Writing Me:

Writing Me
(Link will pop)

Done and dusted 12/10/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

I'm now taking suggestions for week 15. Week 14 and the cover will be up tomorrow. I actually deleted the last cover as it was recorded in my old corrupting software. I have a verrryyy free schedule tomorrow, just for this!

xx

K

Operation Melody: Weeks Thirteen and Fourteen

2007-10-08T23:27:00.000+01:00

Operation Melody #13:

Genre/Theme/Style: My theme song, "something that really sums [me] up."

Song title: Writing Me

Running time: TBD

Operation Melody #14:

Genre/Theme/Style: A hymn.

Song title: TBD

Running time: TBD

Up this weekend sometime, definitely by Sunday night. Please get your suggestions in for next week!

xx
Kat

OM12: Better Run [Video]

2007-10-02T08:22:00.000+01:00

A video of the process etc:

I've saved it 3 times, but the music still cuts out in my conversation with my dog, and then all sound cuts out later on. I'll keep trying, but Windows Movie Maker is being an ass.

OM12: Better Run

2007-10-02T04:37:00.000+01:00

Hee. Halloween of course is coming up this month, hence this suggestion! I was going to do it a bit closer to the date, but it works okay for this week. I hope you enjoy the weird little mish-mash I came up with. And of course, I got an X Files reference in there.

Better Run:

Better Run
(Link will pop)

Done and dusted 02/10/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

A new recording will be available at some point! I'm now taking suggestions for week 14.

xx

K

Change of plans

2007-10-01T10:38:00.000+01:00

So my week 12 idea became a bigger deal than I expected, and I've become quite invested in it! So.. I have scrapped it as Week 12, but don't worry, it'll be Week 13. Week 12's substitute will be up tomorrow, and I've changed the corresponding posts, etc, below.

Get some ideas in for Week 14! Post again tomorrow, it's bedtime for the Kat.

xx

KM

Video!

2007-09-30T22:40:00.000+01:00

The original week 12's OM will be up in video form ASAP. (It has taken a little bit longer to play with, but it's good fun!) - this is the "theme tune" submission, which has ended up not being a theme tune for a show or film, but more so a "theme song" for my life.

Watch this space.

[Kat ♥s you!]

Operation Melody: Week Twelve

2007-09-25T09:29:00.001+01:00

This week's Operation Melody (#12):

Genre/Theme/Style: ~~A theme tune~~ A Halloween tune!

Song title: TBD

Running time: TBD

Up this weekend sometime, definitely by Sunday night. Please get your suggestions in for next week!

xx
Kat

OM11: Serenade

2007-09-23T08:14:00.000+01:00

The Lullaby link is fixed again, and here's week 11. Cover should be up tomorrow or Tues, I have one more day off, so we'll see how that goes! Will also announce 12 tomorrow.

Serenade:

Serenade
(Link will pop)

Lyrics/poem by Verlaine. Done and dusted 23/09/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

A new recording will be available at some point! I'm now taking suggestions for week 13.

xx

K

And!

2007-09-20T06:28:00.000+01:00

My first cover experiment will be up this weekend, too. I'll let you ponder what that may be.

--KM

Operation Melody: Week Eleven

2007-09-20T06:13:00.000+01:00

Oui oui oui!

This week's Operation Melody (#11):

Genre/Theme/Style: A piece en Francais!

Song title: Serenade

Running time: 3:05

Up this weekend sometime, definitely by Sunday night. I'm enjoying working on it. Still also trying to finish the recording of On the Line but I only ever get another little bit done before something else calls my attention. (I hope it will live up to all this anticipation!)

xx
Kat

OM10: Lullaby

2007-09-20T06:10:00.000+01:00

Ha I am such a slacker. Holidays do that to you, and boy did I need one.

Lullaby:

Lullaby
(Link will pop)

Note the truly original title. This is another short one that I really want to expand on, but due to the timeframe... done and dusted 08/09/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

A new recording will be available at some point! I'm now taking suggestions for week 12, week 11's post is up in a second. Thank you for your support and patience! Don't forget to comment every now and then so I know that you're here and listening.

xx

K

OM10 and other things

2007-09-09T10:36:00.001+01:00

Thanks to the lovely folks at my ISP (*coughTelstraclearcough*), this is my first chance to login in the last 3 days. Which means! No song, can't upload. It just won't go through properly. And well, I'm going to sleep, as I'm getting up in 6 hours to catch an early flight - this hiatus week I am in Melbourne.

I promise goodies upon my return.

xx

KM

Operation Melody: Week Ten

2007-09-05T04:46:00.000+01:00

Zzzzz

This week's Operation Melody (#10):

Genre/Theme/Style: A lullaby! Not necessarily for babies. I just thought that one was cute.

Song title: Lullaby

Running time: 1:49

Up Friday 7th/Saturday 8th. Next week we have another hiatus week while I'm in Australia. But keep the suggestions up.

xx
Kat

OM09: Black Swan

2007-09-01T07:42:00.000+01:00

Black Swan:

Black Swan
(Link will pop)

Here it is. I am a little reluctant to release this one out there, but this project is truly about what you can do in a week. This is too short, and needs more layering and work on compression, etc, but here it is! Fitting the project truly. This track is also now available on MySpace. All done and dusted 01/09/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

A new recording will be available at some point! I'm now taking suggestions for week 10. Thank you for your support and patience! Don't forget to comment every now and then so I know that you're here and listening. And hurray that Spring seems to be here!

xx

K

Operation Melody: Week Nine

2007-08-28T12:00:00.000+01:00

Bjork

This week's Operation Melody (#9):

Genre/Theme/Style:
Electronica ("Bjork-y").

Song title: Black Swan

Running time: 1:57

I've had several requests so far for a Bjork style, and it terrifies me, especially now as I have 3 days to go. I will do my best! Keep the suggestions coming and don't forget those covers!

xx
Kat

OM08: Shimmer

2007-08-20T03:50:00.000+01:00

Shimmer:

Shimmer
(Link will pop)

Here's a little instrumental piece. Also available on MySpace.
We're now back on timing track, kinda. All done and dusted 11/08/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

A new recording will be available at some point! Two more tracks up soon (the missing ones) which will be worked on over the next few days. I'm now taking suggestions for week 9, but it won't be up until Friday 31st August, which puts us back on the Friday scheduling.

Thank you for your support and patience! Don't forget to comment every now and then so I know that you're here and listening.

xx

K

Operation Melody: Week Eight

2007-08-18T01:24:00.000+01:00

#8 will be with you tomo/Monday morning, and I'll be re-recording On the Line (#4), Get Yourself An.. is done and uploading.

Operation Melody #7:
Genre/Theme/Style: An instrumental piece.

Song title: Shimmer

Running time: TBD

Keep the suggestions coming and don't forget those covers!

xx
Kat

Okay! two things. Or three.

2007-08-14T11:05:00.000+01:00

::One:: The project is going well so far, and I'm excited about re-recording some of the older songs that didn't come out so well. A New Hope sounds the best so far, but I still have serious tweaking to do.

::Two:: I'd love you to suggest covers I can record for you. Any style, any song, I'll give it a go. I'll change it up a little, as best I can. I already have some fun ones I've been working on.

::Three:: Either comment on this post with your email address if you're a fan, or email katmckenzie@gmail.com and let me know. I did have an email database, but I've lost track of most of it, and I'd like to send out emails when Operation Melody tracks are up, or new developments occur, or gigs are happening. So if you're in, let me know!

xxx

Kat

(Oh and OM Week 8 post is up tomo, hopefully have it up by the weekend.. because of the delays I haven't been able to have stuff up on Fridays like before, I need to get back into that routine soon.)

OM07 - A New Hope

2007-08-11T07:08:00.000+01:00

A New Hope:

A New Hope
(Link will pop)

Here is the Star Wars Country song. It's funny, really, a bit silly. But I enjoyed experimenting and writing this style, it was a challenge.

I've spent WEEKS trying to fix all this sound gear, and I'm finally set up properly, but with a loan Audix mic as I'm waiting on a phantom power supply for my AKG. This is more of a test run, unfortunately, as I'm still working on the levels and the vocals are quite low. To be honest, I don't actually know how the levels really are! I've had it playing back through the Mixcraft setup. Anyhoo, this is all done and dusted 11/08/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace tomorrow, and a new recording will be available at some point! I'm taking suggestions for week 8's tune (as well as going through your emails/comments, and will be re-recording Weeks #4 and #6 Monday/Tuesday.

xx

Kat

I'm so behind..

2007-08-05T11:06:00.001+01:00

..and still no joy. Sigh.

I am buying a microphone tomorrow.

Tune tune tune

2007-08-02T07:47:00.000+01:00

Generally fine tuning for me means concentrating on a song and whittling it down to its absolute best. Unfortunately, 'tuning' for me at the moment means testing software and buying new equipment. Oh the life of a broke musician.

This weekend, providing that all works out well, I should be able to at least have the new song up, which is erm, yes, the country tune about Star Wars. I'm rather amused that I have a song about Star Wars.

On the Line (#4) and Get Yourself An.. (#6) will be re-recorded Monday, as Sunday is looking like the busiest day I'll have in a while, and my 4am shifts kick in again on Tuesday.

(PS: I hope you liked Universe, I'm rather fond of that one.)

xx
Kat

OM Update

2007-07-27T03:43:00.000+01:00

So! Hurray! I am able to bring you Universe!

On the Line (#4) and Get Yourself An.. (#6) have corrupted and my software crashed, I had to install an all new package. I was only able to re-record Universe today. SO this weekend I'll work on re-recording the others and hopefully work on Week 7.

Week 5, Universe:

Universe
(Link will pop)

An unconventional love song for me is a song of unrequited love, not quite the norm. All done and tidied 07/07/07, re-recorded 27/07/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace.

xx
Kat

Operation Melody: Week Seven

2007-07-26T00:59:00.000+01:00

Technical difficulties have unfortunately brought the project to a standstill. I am currently trying to bring you:

Operation Melody weeks
- 4: On the Line
- 5: Universe
- 6: Get Yourself An..
- 7:

The deal for #7:
Genre/Theme/Style: Country song about the 30th anniversary of Star Wars. (Yes Baldwyn, you're crazy.)

Song title: A New Hope

Running time: 3:06

Today I have crashed after a really long and hard work week, so it looks like I'll be trying to sort technical aspects today and finishing #7 tomorrow. Thanks for listening and sticking with it.

xx
Kat

Operation Melody: Week Six

2007-07-21T06:42:00.000+01:00

Andy suggested a jingle for week six, and it's about time the technical difficulties set in.

Installment 4 AND 5 are both down as of present, and #6 isn't uploading properly. SO, I'm continuing to tweak. Fun times. But, keep checking, as you should be able to hear all 3 very soon, I'm not giving up on Operation Melody!

The deal for #6:
Genre/Theme/Style: A Jingle.

Song title: TBD

Running time: Approx 30 seconds

Thanks for your contributions, keep up the emails and feedback. Feedback is so important! It's great to know you're out there listening.

xx
Kat

Hiatus week

2007-07-09T06:27:00.000+01:00

Due to.. well, many reasons, I've decided that every 5 weeks I'm going to have to give myself a hiatus week. So! Operation Melody #6 will grace the intarweb Friday July 20th.

xx

Kat

OM05 - Universe

2007-07-07T02:22:00.000+01:00

Universe:

Universe
(Link will pop)

An unconventional love song for me is a song of unrequited love, not quite the norm. All done and tidied 07/07/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace tomorrow, and a new recording will be available soon. I'm now taking suggestions for week 6's tune (as well as going through your emails/comments :).

xx

Kat

====================================

Re-recording (as of Nov 07): Universe

OM04 - On the Line

2007-07-07T02:20:00.000+01:00

On the Line:

On the Line
(Link will pop)

A tune for home - 06/07/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace tomorrow, and a new recording will be available soon. :)

xx

Kat

Operation Melody: Week Five

2007-07-03T10:55:00.000+01:00

Karina has suggested that I write "an unconventional love song", so that is my choice for Week 5.

Installment 4 AND 5 of Operation Melody will be up together, Friday/Saturday as usual. I haven't been myself lately, so I'm working on that while working on the songs.

The deal for #5:
Genre/Theme/Style: Unconventional love song.

Song title: Universe

Running time: 4:11

Thanks for your contributions, keep up the emails and feedback. Feedback is so important! It's great to know you're out there listening.

xx
Kat

And I got nothin'.

2007-07-01T04:42:00.001+01:00

What a week! Work sucked and my health wasn't much better!

I owe you two songs this Friday, but I expect the first will be up before then.. say Tuesday?

xxx thanks kids

-KM

Operation Melody: Week Four

2007-06-26T12:04:00.000+01:00

Home

This week's choice is close to my heart, and a great suggestion by Rajeev.

Installment 4 of Operation Melody is about my home town.

The deal:
Genre/Theme/Style: Pop/Rock piece, similar to "Find the Light", about Wellington, New Zealand.

Song title: On the Line

Running time: TBD

Thanks for your contributions, keep it up!

xx
Kat

OM03 - Heartbeat

2007-06-23T05:05:00.000+01:00

Follow:

Heartbeat
(Link will pop)

When I started this project, my friend Lili emailed me and challenged me to write something she called "stripped bare". She didn't want me to use any instruments. I was allowed to possibly use sound effects, but no instruments. So this is what came through for me - a piece stripped bare, finished 22/06/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace, and a new recording will be available soon. I'm now taking suggestions for this week's tune (as well as going through your emails/comments).

xx

Kat

Operation Melody: Week Three

2007-06-21T13:52:00.000+01:00

This week's next installment of Operation Melody should be up by Saturday. This week's deal:

Genre/Theme/Style: Stripped bare.

Song title: Heartbeat

Running time: 3:45

The videos are causing me grief, so I think those will be up at the conclusion of 10 weeks (when the first CD should be made/new recordings done). Thanks for your contributions, keep listening!

xx
Kat

OM02 - Follow

2007-06-15T08:19:00.001+01:00

Follow:

Follow
(Link will pop)

Guitar-based folk piece, written 15/06/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007. The levels/reverb are not quite right (and quite frustrating), but this project is about finishing it in a week, so it's pretty good considering all the different layered tracks in there! Let me know what you think.

Also available on MySpace, and a video/new recording will be available soon. I'm now taking suggestions for this week's tune (as well as going through your emails/comments).

xx

Kat

Operation Melody: Week Two

2007-06-13T05:37:00.000+01:00

On the road

I've lost my voice!

BUT, the next installment of Operation Melody should still be up by Saturday. This week's deal:

Genre/Theme/Style: Guitar-based folk piece, about travelling across America.

Song title: Follow

Running time: Approx 5:00

Should have the video of Bluebird up this week, too. Thanks for your contributions, I'm still going through the older ones, but get thinking for next week!

xx
Kat

OM01 - Bluebird

2007-06-08T00:27:00.000+01:00

Bluebird: Please try MySpace if this player "sticks" for you, I am working on it.

Bluebird
(Link will pop)

In the style of Ella Fitzgerald, written 05/06/07 (that's in NZ order, folks), copyright Kat McKenzie 2007.

Also available on MySpace, and a video/new recording will be available next week. I'm now taking suggestions for this week's tune!

xx

Kat

Operation Melody: Week One

2007-06-05T04:55:00.000+01:00

Jazz goddess

The first release of Operation Melody is nearly ready. This week's deal:

Genre/Theme/Style: In the style of Ella Fitzgerald

Song title: Bluebird

Running time: Approximately 4:30

Clips, lyrics, etc to be posted on Friday. Thanks for your contributions this week, get thinking for next!

Operation Melody

2007-05-29T11:17:00.000+01:00

From Friday the 1st of June I am launching a project where I write a song a week!

I will be writing a song, whether it is 30 seconds or 3 minutes long, whether it's amazing or sucks. It's a way to get me writing more, a way to correct my failings and a fun way for you all to take part - I need your input! Each week I will be asking for suggestions of:

a) Genre --and or--
b) Theme --and or--
c) "In the style of..."

So! You can suggest a Rock song. Or you can suggest a Rock song about monkeys. Or you can suggest a Rock song about monkeys that sounds like U2 might write it. Or just the monkeys. Or just the U2 influence. It's up to you!

Rules::

- I have to be able to sing it. SO I can't really accept Hiphop or Rap as a Genre.
- I will be picking at random. I may pick your genre, someone else's theme, and someone else's style, or just go with a style for the week that I think works.
- I appreciate your suggestions, but don't see this just as a push or challenge to me .. I of course am looking to push myself and encourage writing, but it might just be too hard for me to write a U2 Rock song about monkeys.

So go to it! email me at katmckenzie@gmail.com or comment here. First songwriting session begins Friday June 1st.

Digital!

2007-05-16T00:55:00.000+01:00

The Hiding EP is now available on iTunes! So search me out. Also available for download/purchase with:

Bitmunk
Daiki
MP3tunes
Napster
Tradebit
PayPlay
AudioLunchbox
BuyMusic
Inprodicon
MP3-Extension
MusicIsHere
Ruckus
Verizon
Muze
Interia

So go get it!

::April3:: Progress report

2007-04-03T03:50:00.000+01:00

In progress:

Run
Trigger
Open Sky (working title)
Arise
So Long
21
Never Thought
Dark Horse

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):

Alive
On the Way Down
Untitled (waltz)
Fool's Blues
I've Always Known Him
Not Over Yet

♥

Tally it up..

2007-01-08T23:24:00.000Z

So far, it appears that we have sold approximately 110 copies of the Hiding EP.

Well done, everyone. If you enjoyed it, please go to http://www.cdbaby.com/katmckenzie and write a review.

Keep spreading the word. Gig news to come.

xx

K

Happy New Year!

2007-01-04T13:14:00.000Z

May 2007 be a fruitful one for the both of us.

News to come.

xxx

Kat & team

'Been around the world..

2006-11-28T06:53:00.000Z

..and back again.

'Been writing bits and pieces in my head.

'Been changing my plans a million times.

'Been appreciating my friends and country.

'Been loving new sounds.

'Been here, there and everywhere.

'Been waiting to share new tunes.

'Been here for you.

Be back soon.

It's here.

2006-09-30T01:16:00.000+01:00

KAT MCKENZIE: Hiding

A soulful and often haunting blend of pop and rock.

More retailer links coming soon.. as well as the new website. If you're from NZ or Australia, drop me an email and we'll sort it all out.

xx

Kat

Oh what a night.

2006-09-26T03:36:00.000+01:00

Solo
Originally uploaded by Sarathine.

The EP gig was wonderful. We had a crowd of 35-40, a good atmosphere and we had a lot of fun. There was some flubs here and there in the music department, but nothing major, and I'm quite happy overall.

Photos from the night are up at my Flickr. CD available online very soon!

xx

Kat

The score

2006-09-20T03:13:00.000+01:00

So we've had a little bit of news and flurry stirred about the gig. Online communities know, posters are up in places, texts have gone out, emails have gone out (with pdfs attached!), and there's a small article in the local paper:

Monday night I called up my "asian sweatshop workers" and they came around to help me score/crease all of the front and back slicks for the EP. Here's the three of them at work:

More photos of that night are at my Flickr here.

Almost all of the first 200 made have been done, and I've sent off copies to one of my US retailers, the other will follow next week. I'll be sure to let you know how you can get one soon.

I'm also hoping to send copies to a few important folk, as well as musicians I admire. Let's just hope the buzz continues and we have a great night on Saturday. Of course, you'll get the full scoop here next week.

Thanks for being here and supporting me. Keep it up. Can't do it alone.

xxx

Kat

It's here!

2006-09-14T23:43:00.000+01:00

Please come if you're in town.

xxx

--Kat

Apologies and amends~

2006-08-30T00:09:00.000+01:00

Friends, I have Mononucleosis, also known as Glandular Fever or simply 'Mono'. So things have been going slowly, punctuated with bouts of lethargy and blood tests abound. I hope you're not mad with me.

The EP has been duplicated, printing is underway. The EP will be available for sale in the next few weeks, I promise ya. If overseas, you'll be able to get it online, Kiwis directly from me (Aussies, maybe we can work something out!).

Thank you for checking in, I'll have more news/an ad for the party up in the next week. I'm just doing a lot of resting at the moment.

Don't forget to send your details to mailinglist@katmckenzie.com to be on the mailing list for updates.

xx

K

Partay

2006-08-01T06:51:00.000+01:00

The EP party plans are well underway, I'll post a gig ad here soon. Thanks for checking in, everything's going well.

xx

--K

Reconnect

2006-06-29T05:45:00.000+01:00

If you read my other blog, you'll know that I have been on a course at night lately. And my weekends have been gone. I feel like my house has been a mess for a month and I haven't worked out for 3 weeks. And the worst thing?

Damn I miss my piano.

Gonna have a good play tonight.

Pssst! Come back next week for an EP announcement! It's dropping very soon!

Life, life, life

2006-06-20T00:26:00.000+01:00

I hate making this post without having an EP to give you.

But honestly, life just gets in the way and these things take way longer than you expect. I have given you so many false deadlines and dates, and I just don't want to anymore. So the truth of the matter is: I have so much going on in my life right now. So many personal issues. And add to that the fact that I have taken up a course that runs 6-10pm when I am already working 8-5.

But I promise you, it is coming. It is being duplicated and printed, and soon it will be shipped to the sellers and plugged in all the right places (if you want to link to us, I will have some banners ready soon) and the site is being looked at by a good designer.

And then the party will come and Wellington/New Zealand/the intarweb will be (more) aware, and then I can start begging you all to talk about the EP and me and blast my links everywhere.

Thanks for sticking by me and being so patient. I will deliver.. I just don't know exactly when.

::June4:: Progress report

2006-06-04T10:58:00.000+01:00

Keep listening out for EP updates and make sure to send in to join the mailing list!

In progress:

Open Sky (working title)
Arise
Standing
So Long
21
Say Something
Never Thought
Dark Horse

Covers:

Better Be Home Soon
Lovesong
Man With the Child in His Eyes

Incomplete/put aside (but will go back to):

Alive
On the Way Down
Untitled (waltz)
Fool's Blues
I've Always Known Him
Not Over Yet

♥

Find the light

2006-05-29T12:05:00.000+01:00

MySpace have fixed their error and the new song is up on my page now. Thanks for your patience. :)

xxx

First listen

2006-05-23T12:02:00.000+01:00

A track from the EP is up on my MySpace. (It's still processing while I write, so if it's not there, check again soon).

xxx

Kat

Done.

2006-05-22T04:44:00.000+01:00

Hi folks

The EP is done! Check back soon for details on how to grab one. We're getting everything printed up and organised ASAP. So exciting!

It should be available at a few online retailers (and a few select US stores!!) soon, and you will be the first to hear about it. I'll also announce the launch party details here.

xx

Follow the melody

2006-05-11T01:09:00.000+01:00

Updates:

The mix sounds great, but needs a little bit of work. I am going in next Tuesday to finalise it, and then the mastering will begin.

We are hoping to schedule another photoshoot for the EP cover soon.

The design plans for the EP and website are well on their way.

I am resting! We have some illness in the family and birthdays and operations and and and..

Thanks for checking in.

Mix

2006-05-06T07:46:00.000+01:00

Hi friends!

I am picking up a mix tonight, looking forward. Hopefully things will be finalised next week and I can get into having this available for everyone by the end of May.

We also had a photoshoot today and should have another one soon. The team is growing. Thanks to those of you who have signed up for the mailing list, when the EP is ready, the first mail should go out. Feel free to pass it on, as well as this site address, to your friends.

Thanks a ton for your patience.

xx

--KM

Mailing list

2006-05-02T08:57:00.000+01:00

If you wish to be on the mailing list for music updates, please send your name and email to mailinglist@katmckenzie.com.

It shouldn't be anything too frequent and spammy.

xxx!

--K

Your email address will not be passed on to any other persons or company, will not be used to fill out free iPod offers or sign up for porn... unless you're into that sort of thing. The email address you supply is for the eyes of Kat McKenzie and her minions only.

More photos

2006-04-26T01:17:00.000+01:00

Vocal booth
Originally uploaded by Sarathine.

More photos are up at my Flickr.

The waiting game

2006-04-23T22:11:00.000+01:00

Hi, guys!

I am expecting to have a draft demo mix back from my engineer this week, and I'll be going back in for another mixing session soon before we finish it all up.

I've been concentrating on resting and getting myself back to 100%. No writing has been done in a while, I think that'll start back up this weekend after all the birthday festivities.

Keep checking in.

--K