Concert Review: Kat Cunning Gives Style To Music At Spring Place
@lauradernphotography
I knew I was headed for a show, when I asked someone, “Where is Spring Place?”, and they responded, “Oh, that bougie place where all the artists commune”. I can tell you WITH ASSURANCE that I have NEVER had a human being respond to me with that answer when asking for directions. Frankly, it made me even more curious to see Kat Cunning perform at this “bougie” locale.
The friendly pedestrian was not wrong. Walking into Spring Place I was surprised by its luxuriousness, which is why I tried to make myself as small as possible in the deep red lounge where everyone cohorts side by side. If there is one thing life has taught me, it is how to be invisible. Yet, do not cry for me because Kat Cunning taught me how to be seen. In not knowing what to expect, I was left open to be impressed by someone who believes their presence is art, and belongs in opulent locales such as, The Met. While most of us go around trying to build a sense of identity, Kat Cunning sees herself as something more: a painting. She moves her body like a sculpture coming to life, as a circle of images plays upon her glowing face. Cunning feels so vintage and futuristic, all at once, which makes her timeless.
I know this is a strange comparison, but Cunning kind of reminded me of Kanye West. Sure, she may not spit a rhyme, but she can sulk and silk a verse like a makeup artist; turning faces into visions. Her capacity to transform soundscapes into dreamworlds reminded me of Mr. West, and alluded to his, and thus her, gift to make more than a fandom; she could make a style. Everything about Cunning you wanted to follow, and it started with her approachability. Not many people can make a song, “Stay On The Line”, about phone sex shine like a set of pearls, rather than ones clutched in shock or distaste. Yet, she turns openness into a platform for elegance.
“Make You Say My Name Again”, “Baby”, and “Wild Poppies” were like burlesque beauties; as if each song had a body glammed in a diamond costume and swaying in slow, scintillating synths. Yet, it is her voice that is the “creme de la creme”, of which she controls it voice with the dedication and dazzle a ballet dancer would her physique. Like Birdy, she has the aerial gracefulness that soars and steams vocal notes for their beauty. You almost want to wear her voice like a fine coat. Once again, connecting the fact that Kat Cunning creates music that waltzes into your hears like fashion. Her songs are beaded, sewn, draped, and fitted to be awed. For More Information On Kat Cunning Click Here.