Saturday, February 23 marks the 10th Anniversary of Brite Winter, Cleveland’s outdoor winter festival (because with lake effect snow, and sub-degree windchill factors, is there any other way this city could celebrate the music and arts?). Luckily, this weekend is calling for balmy fifty degree weather.
The Katy, one of the bands warming up the night, are performing at the festival for the first time. The band has only been around since 2016, but with the 2017 release of their EP, Collage, the band (drummer Ashanti Allison and organist Eli Hanley) has been making waves in the Cleveland music scene with their blues-inspired mellow rock. Lead singer and bassist, Cathalyn, took some time out to talk about the pre-Brite jitters and what’s coming down the pike for the band.
The Katy plays the Ports Petroleum Stage at Mulberry’s Station at 4:40 p.m.
This is your first time playing Brite Winter, how are you feeling?
We’re excited to play. Although I’ve been many times to watch, we’ve never played Brite Winter before. We’re looking forward to meeting some new people and enjoying the festival.
How do you want people to feel when they watch you perform? What are you hoping for?
I want people to sense our sincerity. I always hope people will catch some of the lyrics or be curious to look them up later and for that to evoke a response.
How would you describe The Katy?
I’d say we’re unique. We’re ourselves and that comes off in our sound and in our style.
What is the songwriting process like for you?
It’s one of my favorite things to do. I like to take my time. I journal a lot. I like choosing words, looking them up or reading lyrics from my favorite writers or some poetry. I feel like songwriting is the clearest way I express myself.
What are you preparing to play? Any new songs?
Our newest song in the set is “Elbowroom”. We’ve been revamping our live set with some new sounds and we’re looking forward to trying it out. I’m also excited to play “Livelihood” because I think its message is relevant and especially important.
What do you think the challenge will be playing in the cold (if it is cold?)
To endure our fingers seizing up but I think we’ll be inside! Haha.
Have you attended Brite Winter in the past? What’s your favorite things at Brite?
I like standing around the bonfires and the food trucks. Last year, I had some really good macaroni from one. I also like people watching for cool clothes cause winter layering to me is hard.
Who else are you excited to see perform?
I’m really hoping to catch some of the BeatFreak showcase, Fresh Produce, Visual 9, and Red Rose Panic.
If people can’t make it to Brite, where can they see you perform next?
We’ll be performing in Columbus at Brothers Drake Meadery March 2nd with Middle School Dance.