But in addition to all of this, Kate Davis also works on solo material in the indie rock genre, songs described as being both informed by and in rebuttal of her formal training. Back in 2019, Davis released Trophy on Solitaire Recordings, an album that explored identity and loss with a distinctively heartfelt, cathartic tone. And this year, Davis has teamed up with Daniel Johnston’s charity, the Hi How Are You Project, to record a cover album of Johnston’s Strange Boy. The project is a “non-profit organization inspiring new conversations around mental health issues by funding and creating thoughtful media content, projects and events,” and a portion of the proceeds will go towards supporting this good work.

Something of an archetype in the bedroom pop genre, Johnston has been covered many times by the current crop of musicians, but taking on a whole record of a performer so singular and beloved is no mean feat. But Davis has the skill, range and emotional sensitivity to do his work justice, as highlighted by lead single ‘I’ll Do Anything But Breakdance For Ya, Darling.’ “When I first heard Daniel Johnston I was struck by the directness and clarity in his writing,” Davis says. “I wanted to gain perspective into that directness.” This version does exactly that, serving as a poignant tribute to Johnston himself while retaining the personal tone that made him so special, carrying the flame for a new generation of artists.

Sometimes I feel like I am a boxer
Seems like I’m always standing in the ring
And then I find someone’s been in my locker
He left me a note that says I can’t sing
I’ll do anything but break dance for you, darlin’

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As the title suggests, the record is at least in part inspired by an enduring interest in Christian mysticism, and themes of epiphany and revelation allow Boothby to explore his own growth—both personal and metaphysical. Because, while Little Kid are certainly not a Christian band in the traditional sense, they do not shy away from spiritual themes. Their use of religious imagery is therefore multiplicitous, ironic and playful in ways that subvert the dusty conventions of Christianity but engaging with questions of spirituality in a manner that is fundamentally sincere too.

The self-deprecating lead single ‘Thief on the Cross’ makes this apparent, positioning Boothby as the man crucified alongside Jesus, asking to be remembered in heaven when all is said and done. The situation is repurposed for the careful balance between humiliation and desperation that is the music scene, where successful artists transcend their mortal bodies and rise to some higher plane. They might, just might, have the power to take others with them, if only they have the humbleness to ask.

Praying
You’ll remember me
When you finally reach
The entrance to eternity

I played in
That old three-piece
We opened for thee
Oh way back in 2015

But I’m not implying
You owe me some kindness
Can’t get nothing by you
So why would I try?

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