Katie Ainge - Still Alive

​Katie Ainge

Sill Alive
​self-released; 2022

4.0 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Katie Ainge is an independent singer/songwriter based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Katie's song “Fond of You” can be found in Season 5 episode 18 of the hit TV show The Fosters. Ainge also recently released Still Alive which is a six-song EP. 

Her music to my ears falls into the singer/songwriter and folk category. The acoustic guitar seems to be her instrument of choice but at the center of these songs are the vocals. Up first is the song “Easy” and there’s a bit of a mysterious vibe here. The guitar work was really good. I was impressed by the vocals right off the bat and the combination of the lead and harmonies works well on the hook. It’s a solid introduction to her sound.

“Run to the Water” is next and perhaps a little more pop oriented. This song felt like a single to my ears. It revolves around a subtle beat which includes a shaker, an acoustic guitar and a bass. The vocals are delivered well. There’s almost a neutral emotional quality to the verse and it seems to open up a bit on the hook. It’s a great time and reminded me of a number of folk artists from the ’70s.

“Still Alive” is the arguable highlight. This song pops. It’s got a bit of southern gothic quality and the delayed guitar sounds fantastic. Ainge’s vocals are dynamic on this song. There’s an urgency to her vocals and they soar on the chorus. I loved the sense of danger on this song which also feels a bit haunting at times while still delivering memorable melodies. 

“Crimes” is the most melancholy and reflective song. This mood works well. There’s also some spaghetti western guitars that are drenched in reverb which create a unique sound. You could make an argument that “The Odyssey” contains the best vocal performance. The harmonies sound warm and full with atmospheric elements assisting with dynamics and consistent strummed acoustic providing the backbone.

Last up is “Lead Me Home” which is another high point. The guitar picking patterns were hypnotic and the vocals again sound great. It’s a pensive song with shades of dark and light. 

​This is a well executed EP. Ainge successfully displays different sides to her talent and her vocals were continually inviting. There’s a lot to appreciate here. Take a listen.

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