A specialist in Medieval music and alternative rock, Katherine Christie Evans is an intriguing discovery whose new single is out of this world.

By Graeme Smith

Based in Birmingham, Evans has drawn on more Latin origins for their latest single, Lucente Stella (Shining Star). Telling a heart-wrenching story of unrequited and impossible love inspired by an anonymous Medieval love song found in an arcane Italian manuscript from the 1400s, the Codex Rossi, it beautifully creates a sense of space and distance. Echoing notes and rich vocals set the early scene, blending with ambient layers to envelope you.

As the track progresses, we get some edgy rock and electronica elements which form an unlikely but satisfying partnership with the Medieval composition. The experimental, early Pink Floyd-esque ending lingers, ramping up the sense of atmosphere. I’ve truly not heard much like it.

Originally from Romford, Evans produces, sings, and does sound engineering, creating a proudly DIY sound. The non-binary artist has caught the attention of BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson and has been played on BBC Radio 3’s Night Tracks by Sara Mohr-Pietsch.

I’m glad they’re now on my radar and certainly should be on yours too. Lucente Stella is out now, and you can listen to it – ideally with headphones – below.

Supported by Musosoup #SustainableCurator