Review of Kat Eaton’s album “What Happens Now” on Rock & Blues Muse
Kat Eaton, a Welsh-born artist based in Sheffield, UK, has recently released her third album, “What Happens Now,” which showcases her talent in the R&B/soul genre. Teaming up with producer Nick Atkinson, with whom she has been working since they were teenagers, they have created a well-crafted project that explores a mix of soul, jazz, blues, and pop without overwhelming the listener with unnecessary noise. The chemistry between Eaton and Atkinson is apparent in the crisp mix of the album, balancing intimate and personal tracks with ones that are universally relatable.
Recorded primarily at Konk Studios, known for its history with bands like The Kinks and artists like Adele, Massive Attack, and the Bee Gees, the album benefitted from Atkinson’s expertise in blending vintage instruments like Wurlitzers, analog synths, retro mics, and more to create a warm and vibrant sound reminiscent of Muscle Shoals. The studio’s influence can be felt throughout the album, adding depth and character to each track.
From the empowering opening track, “Break Free,” where Eaton sings about self-realization and empowerment, to the reflective “Not Pretending” and the soulful “Better Left Unsaid,” where she explores the importance of thoughtful communication, each song on the album showcases Eaton’s impressive vocal range and emotive delivery. The celebratory “Kings and Queens” pays homage to Northern Soul culture, while tracks like “Real You” and “Humming Low” dive into themes of connection and intimacy.
In “By Now,” Eaton challenges societal expectations placed on women, advocating for independence and self-acceptance. The standout track, “Long Goodbye,” captures the vulnerability of a breakup with haunting vocals and bluesy guitar. The album closes with the title track, where Eaton’s vocal versatility shines as she navigates through verses with confidence and meditation, set against a backdrop of vibrant harmonies and rhythmic clapping.
“What Happens Now” is a testament to Eaton’s ability to put a modern twist on soul music while maintaining a deep connection with her audience. With its blend of soulful grooves, jazz influences, and heartfelt lyrics, the album offers a rich and engaging listening experience that will leave listeners hitting the repeat button. Eaton’s voice, paired with Atkinson’s production skills, creates a seamless and captivating journey through themes of self-discovery, connection, and empowerment that resonate long after the music stops.