by emma schoors
photo by meg mccauly
Nashville-based singer-songwriter Sara Kays’ latest EP Camera Shy is a collection of beautiful, poetic tracks, all personal enough to connect with listeners in a special and meaningful way.
“Home for the Summer” weaves the pain of separation with the beauty of togetherness. Kays’ gorgeous vocals dance around the song as she details the effortlessness of high school, and the difficulty of leaving someone she loves behind as life gets more complicated. This track is gut-wrenching in all the right ways, and displays her true talent for bringing her audience into the story as they listen.
Closing track “I’m Okay Though” delves into Kays’ personal struggles and feelings, such as feeling alone and having to deal with family issues, all the while having to fight inner demons. The bubbly chorus contrasts the dark lyrics perfectly. This vulnerability is what sets Kays apart from many artists, and her willingness to share her struggles will surely resonate with even more listeners in the future.
Sara Kays is an artist to look out for at the very least. Her vocals are stunning, and her lyricism and ability to tell a story is unmatched. Kays’ style of songwriting is a great way of de-stigmatizing discussions around mental health, and makes those listening feel more at home, more accepted, and more willing to share their own stories. If you’re looking for a truly captivating bunch of songs, her latest EP is a great choice.