Atanaria
Kat Von D’s My Side of the Mountain, released on September 20th, 2024, is nothing short of a sonic masterpiece. It’s an album that not only solidifies her place in the music world but elevates her to an even higher echelon of artistry. A multi-talented force, Kat Von D continues to prove that her creativity knows no bounds, and with this album, she delivers a body of work that is hauntingly beautiful, deeply evocative, and entirely unforgettable.
At the heart of My Side of the Mountain is a luscious fusion of ‘80s nostalgia, with a unique blend of disco goth, synthwave, and post-punk influences. The result is a soundscape that’s at once familiar and fresh, with a hypnotic pull that draws listeners in from the first note to the last. Tracks like “Dead” showcase this retro-flavored magic, starting as a gentle synth-pop tune before blossoming into a shimmering anthem, full of emotional depth and a captivating sense of longing.
“Vampire Love,” a standout track with its sensuous bassline and subtle hints of funk, is a perfect example of Kat’s ability to weave together musical complexity with raw emotion. Her voice, supple and ethereal, delivers every lyric with an almost haunting sensuality. It’s a song that pulses with desire and need, making it an irresistible listen that leaves you spellbound.
Another triumph on the album is “Truth In Reverse,” where dark, sultry undertones ride on a thumping beat, all elevated by Kat’s smoky, sultry vocals. The chorus offers a lush, swaying melody that feels both grand and intimate, making the listener feel every ounce of emotion she pours into the track. It’s in these moments that Kat truly shines as a vocalist, her voice imbued with an almost otherworldly richness that lingers long after the song has ended.
“I Am A Machine,” featuring the powerhouse vocals of Alissa White-Gluz from Arch Enemy, brings a thrilling contrast of strength and vulnerability. The muscular rhythm, paired with the duo’s luminous voices, creates a dynamic that is nothing short of explosive. This tension between power and fragility is one of the album’s greatest strengths, and it’s showcased to perfection on this track.
Songs like “Running Away” and “With You” offer shimmering moments of pure synth-driven euphoria, with Kat’s vocals floating effortlessly above drifting melodies and dance-pop rhythms. And then there’s “Por Ti,” a seductive, Latin-infused gem sung entirely in Spanish, which adds an unexpected yet delicious twist to the album. It’s a track brimming with quixotic charm, adding a new layer of depth to Kat’s ever-expanding musical repertoire.
Closing with a stunning cover of Eric Carmen’s “All By Myself,” Kat Von D takes a classic and imbues it with a melancholic grace that’s almost prayer-like in its yearning. It’s a perfect finale to an album that explores vulnerability, love, and the complexities of the human experience with a rare and delicate touch.
My Side of the Mountain is a triumph in every sense. Kat Von D has crafted an album that not only showcases her extraordinary vocal talent but also her gift for creating music that feels both timeless and entirely her own. Every track is a journey into a rich, emotive world that leaves you wanting more. If there was ever any doubt about Kat Von D’s place in the music world, My Side of the Mountain erases it completely. This album is nothing short of spectacular.
