Katie Gavin has released her latest single, “Casual Drug Use,” a track from her forthcoming debut solo album, ‘What A Relief’. As one of the earliest written and most compelling songs on the album, “Casual Drug Use” stands out for its blend of anthemic energy and emotional vulnerability. The track draws inspiration from classic heartland rock and road songs, reminiscent of The Chicks’ “The Long Way Around,” offering a powerful reflection on youth and the bonds of friendship.
Gavin shares the story behind the song, describing it as an exploration of youthful recklessness and the comfort found in the company of friends. Written in 2016 after a day trip with a friend, the song captures the spirit of those carefree moments. For the music video, Gavin decided to echo this sentiment by filming a road trip with her childhood best friend. The video features different colored potions, symbolizing the external substances people often use to alter their internal states, adding a layer of metaphor to the visual storytelling.
‘What A Relief‘, set to be released on Saddest Factory Records, showcases Gavin’s prowess as a songwriter. Throughout the album, she tackles complex emotions and uncomfortable truths with a sense of grace and practicality. The album examines the human need for intimacy and romance without casting judgment or resorting to harshness, offering a nuanced take on these universal experiences.
“Casual Drug Use” follows the release of “Aftertaste,” another track from the album that delves into the exhilarating rush of new romance. Like many of Gavin’s best pop songs, “Aftertaste” captures the intensity of desire with a sense of ease, embracing the thrill of the moment. Gavin describes the song as taking place within the magnetic pull of attraction, where the feeling of hope and possibility still lingers. She reflects on the joy of surrendering to that sensation, noting that many songwriters share a deep connection with romantic fantasy.
Gavin describes ‘What A Relief’ as “Lilith Fair-core,” a term that accurately captures the album’s essence. The project taps into the raw self-assurance and homespun pop sensibility of artists like Alanis Morissette, Fiona Apple, and Ani DiFranco. These influences serve as a guiding force for Gavin as she embarks on her own journey of self-discovery, using their tenacity as a beacon.
In addition to the album release, Gavin will be hitting the road this fall for a national tour, performing in intimate venues across the United States. She will also play a sold-out show in London, highlighting the growing anticipation for her debut project. The tour will provide fans with an up-close and personal experience of her music, further solidifying her place as a rising artist in the industry.
With ‘What A Relief’, Katie Gavin establishes herself as a compelling voice in contemporary music, capable of articulating complex emotions with clarity and insight. Her ability to blend vulnerability with strength makes her debut album a highly anticipated release.
