Katey Morley is a force. Small, but mighty (a cliched phrase, typically, but she is not typical in the least). I first met her when I was working in a Vespa shop. Our eyes locked and we became fast friends. She has since entertained at her piano, behind the microphone, everywhere from the Rose Water Supper Club to regular gigs across Toronto venues. Or maybe, like other Torontonians I know, she dj’d her way into your heart, or crept in with the striking visuals of artistry (because she doesn’t just sing, play and spin, she is an incredible visual and ceramic artist). Katey has also brought innovation to the Toronto design scene. It’s official; she has a hand in so many exciting projects that she might be an octopus, hiding in the pint-sized body of a transportingly sensual, powerful musician.

Katey Morley. Live at The Piston, Toronto. Photo courtesy of Kelly G Kelly

At the album launch for Now and Then she released a series of new tracks (Now) and some of her most iconic tracks from the past (Then). Her voice is beyond describing. So I won’t. Just go check her out at https://kateymorleymusic.com/

She is someone whose music straddles so many genres, from folk, to indie, to country, to jazz and blues. At times she reminds me of the big sounds of belters like Florence Welch, while at others there is an understated sweetness, powered by raw emotion, like Feist. All poured out with warm honeyed-sound and something familiar, buttery and cinnamon spiced.

Live at The Piston, Toronto. Photo courtesy of Kelly G Kelly

All this is to say, that I’m thrilled to have my own copy of her album on my Itunes playlist, and on vinyl. Give it a listen. Then listen again. You won’t be sorry.