Michigan-based brothers Connor and Kendall Wright, known as Cal In Red, are preparing to unveil their debut album ‘Low Low’ on August 30 via B3SCI Records. The duo has been steadily building anticipation with a series of singles, including “She Won’t Say,” “Boyfriend,” “Zebra,” and “Habits.” Now, they add another captivating track to their repertoire with “Kitchen,” featuring James Mercer of The Shins, a collaboration that marks a significant milestone in their burgeoning career.
“Kitchen” emerges as a distinctive track within Cal In Red’s discography, described by Kendall Wright as their “country song.” This sonic shift marks a departure from their previous work, showcasing the band’s willingness to explore new musical landscapes. The song delves into the melancholic territory of a breakup, narrated from an external perspective. Wright explains the inspiration behind the song, noting, “It’s a breakup song at its core, but one where you’re witnessing it from outside ruins. Having lived with two friends in love and then watching it crumble, the song came easy.”
The involvement of James Mercer adds a layer of depth and nostalgia to the track. The connection between Cal In Red and Mercer dates back to 2017, when the Wright brothers, under their former band Mertle, won The Shins’ Van Contest with a cover of “Painting A Hole.” This shared history laid the foundation for the collaboration on “Kitchen.” Reflecting on Mercer’s influence, Kendall Wright expressed admiration for the musician, particularly noting the impact of The Shins’ “Gone for Good,” a song that also incorporates subtle country elements. Wright appreciates Mercer’s ability to convey deeply personal emotions in a universally relatable way.
The collaboration came about serendipitously. The Wright brothers, recognizing the song’s potential, took a chance and reached out to Mercer to contribute his vocals. To their surprise and delight, Mercer agreed. Kendall Wright highlights Mercer’s contributions, stating, “Everything he added was gold. His ability to give a song exactly what it needs is super special.” This sentiment underscores the seamless integration of Mercer’s vocal style with the track’s emotional landscape.
James Mercer has been vocal about his admiration for Cal In Red, expressing his enthusiasm for their growth over the years. Regarding the collaboration, Mercer shared, “I’ve loved watching Cal In Red develop the past few years and after hearing ‘Kitchen,’ and the record, I was happy to get to collab!” His endorsement not only enhances the track’s appeal but also signals the band’s growing influence and potential in the indie music scene.
Low Low promises to be a compelling debut, showcasing Cal In Red’s evolution and versatility. The singles released so far suggest an album rich in emotional depth and stylistic variety. “Kitchen,” with its country undertones and introspective lyrics, offers a glimpse into the band’s ability to tackle complex themes with nuance and sincerity.
The album’s release on B3SCI Records, a label known for nurturing emerging talent, further positions Cal In Red for a successful launch into the broader music landscape. As the release date approaches, fans and new listeners alike are eager to experience the full scope of the band’s artistic vision.
Cal In Red’s journey from their days as Mertle to the release of *Low Low* has been marked by growth, experimentation, and a willingness to push boundaries. The inclusion of James Mercer on “Kitchen” not only cements a meaningful collaboration but also elevates the track to a new level of artistry. As the band continues to explore different musical styles and themes, they are poised to make a significant impact with their debut album.
With Low Low, Cal In Red is set to offer an introspective and sonically diverse experience, promising to resonate with a wide audience. The album serves as a testament to the Wright brothers’ talent and their potential to become significant figures in the indie music scene. As fans await the full album, “Kitchen” stands as a highlight, blending personal narrative with a universally relatable sound, and setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting future for Cal In Red.