Feature: Sarah Kinsley's Upcoming Debut Album 'Escaper' Blends Classical Elegance With Modern Pop Mystique
NEW YORK–BASED POP ARTIST — Sarah Kinsley is ready to return with her debut album, Escaper, releasing on Sept. 6. Kinsley’s sound is the perfect combination of classical and pop genres that blend together in each of her tracks. Now, she’s ready to wow her audience once again with her profound impact and imaginary worlds brought to life. With influences such as Elizabeth Fraser and the Cocteau Twins, her sound remains unique to her own while combining two distinct genres and universes of music and storytelling.
Her single “The King” has received over 50M streams and has been named one of Vevo’s Artists to Watch in 2024. Kinsley has also previously sold out audiences across the US and Europe. Now, she’s ready to introduce her fans to an entirely new universe that explores themes such as love, loss, and escape.
Kinsley’s classical roots shine through in her use of orchestration and ability to create emotional depth through her music. “I grew up as a classically trained musician and always thought I’d be involved in music,” Kinsley explained. “Songwriting and producing became ways to express myself and create music.”
Kinsley describes herself as a self-taught producer, meaning that her production skills were learned on her own and on her own time. “I used YouTube tutorials to learn production, aiming to enhance my own music with production skills,” she said. “I still enjoy both aspects of being a musician and producer.”
Throughout the creation of Escaper, Kinsley also dove into new realms of self-expression. Classical inspirations and influences include composers such as Frédéric Chopin, Claude Debussy, and Maurice Ravel, even while melding her tracks with modern pop elements. “I find it interesting to merge these genres,” Kinsley said. “Classical elements are increasingly present in various genres, and I enjoy blending them in my own music.”
Kinsley’s fascination with creating imaginary worlds and alternate realities within her music stemmed from past projects alongside non-music influences, as well.
“My interest began with my last EP, Ascension,” she explained. “A quote about love and heartbreak from Céline Sciamma’s film Portrait of a Lady on Fire especially influenced me too. The idea of a universe created between two people that remains untouched after leaving the relationship resonated deeply. I continued exploring this theme with Escaper, focusing on the concept of alternate realities and the impact of tiny decisions.”
What’s even more fascinating is the inspiration behind the title Escaper. “The title clicked when I wrote the song,” Kinsley said. “It represents someone who leaves but also returns, which I find compelling. It also connects with the idea of leaving behind a world of memories and experiences.”
Prior to her album release date, Kinsley has released a number of singles leading up to September. “Last Time We Never Meet Again” is an anthem expressing themes of endings and new beginnings in a celebratory tone. “Starling” celebrates platonic love and the sustaining power of friendship, inspired by a personal dinner experience in London. “Realms,” her most recently released single, examines multiple universes and scenarios with its “free and rhythmically engaging” melody.
A defining experience of recording Escaper was collaborating with producer John Congleton, who’s known for his work with artists like St. Vincent and Angel Olsen. “It was my first time working with another producer for an entire album,” Kinsley explained. “John Congleton is an idol of mine, so it was fascinating to see his process.”
This collaboration introduced new dimensions to her music, evident in certain tracks that underwent several transformations before reaching their final forms. The two experimented with various instruments and tempo changes to get the album into its final stage.
Fans can expect a vibrant and immersive live experience if they plan to attend Kinsley’s upcoming tour, beginning on Sept. 15 in Vancouver. Her ability to engage with audiences, alongside her energetic performances have already made a significant impact on fans across the US and Europe.
“I’m excited for the entire tour,” she said while highlighting her anticipation for performing in new cities. She also expressed her love for some of her favorite venues, including The Troubadour in Los Angeles and Webster Hall in New York.
Kinsley describes her audience’s energy as “symbiotic.” “I feed off their reactions and aim to create an incredible experience,” she stated. “Engaging with the audience during shows, like sampling their voices, helps create a more intimate connection and enhances the performance.”
As Escaper explores the process of grief and loss, Kinsley expressed that she learned many lessons from the journey of creation of the album. “I learned a lot about myself and the role of music as a form of expression during difficult times,” she stated. “It was refreshing to emerge from that process and gain insights into my vulnerabilities.”
Looking ahead, Kinsley’s next focus is on her upcoming tour that will span across the US and Europe from September through the end of November.
As Kinsley prepares to share Escaper with the world on Sept. 6, her journey from classical music student to innovative pop artist marks a unique evolution. Kinsley’s debut album promises to captivate and inspire, inviting listeners to explore their own escapes and emotional landscapes.
