A lot has happened in the two years since I first discovered Heather Mae’s music (thanks to her partner and diva in her own right, Crys Matthews):
- I traveled an hour to see Heather perform a few songs as part of a Pride event in Waterbury, CT that gave me a taste of how incredible she is in concert. If given the chance, I totally recommend checking her out!
- My partner and I were lucky enough to host a stop on Heather’s intimate house concert tour. Getting to meet Heather, see her do an amazing set and bring joy to our family and friends was the best.
- Heather went through some rough patches and struggles in her personal life that she was able to turn around and put into her art.
- Heather’s Kickstarter campaign reached its goal allowing her to release her two female and rainbow-family-driven albums.
First of which, What They Hid From Me, is a folksy-pop album with a few tracks (“Ash & Smoke” and “All’s Not Lost”) having a psychedelic 70’s vibe and heavier messages with hints of hope. This is her social justice album that touches on topics such as mental health, racism, religion, sexual assault and ending in the apocalypse. It’s relatable and thought provoking.
Next up, is Kiss & Tell. Have you ever sat around pondering what a Taylor Swift album would sound like if she were in a queer poly relationship with Madonna and Dido? Oh…just me, ok…well Kiss & Tell would totally be their love child. Born out of lust and desire, this album is a relationship rollercoaster ride. It’s sexy-pop that flirts with hardship and reality.
It’s not often that a diva puts out a double album and Heather really shines on both. I like that the albums have different styles but a common thread. The emotions are raw and honest while the music is welcoming and lasting. In my gay opinion, these albums are a yin and yang of light and dark, weaving their magic through Heather’s musical journey and not to be missed.
