Kate Pierson, the iconic vocalist from the legendary band The B-52's, has returned to the music scene with her latest solo album Radios and Rainbows. This highly anticipated album marks Pierson's first solo release in nearly a decade, following her 2015 LP Guitars and Microphones. Set for release on September 20, 2024, Radios and Rainbows promises to deliver an eclectic blend of music that is as vibrant and engaging as the title suggests.
The First Single: "Evil Love"
Ahead of the album’s release, Pierson unveiled the lead single, “Evil Love,” a striking song she describes as “a feel-good song about revenge.” The single is an intense yet playful exploration of obsessive love, with Pierson sharing that it’s a “noir thriller of a song set on the coast of Maine.” This track was co-written with Bleu, a talented songwriter and producer, and represents a creative departure from the original concept of forgiveness, veering instead into a darker, more complex emotional territory. As Pierson explains, "Sometimes evil love is the only love you need."
The lyrics of "Evil Love" paint a vivid picture of emotional entanglement, revenge, and unshakable desire, wrapped in the metaphor of a storm on the coast of Maine. The driving beats and haunting melody enhance the song’s thrilling narrative, reflecting Pierson’s dynamic range both vocally and creatively. The chorus of the song, with its infectious “La la la, la, running through my blood” refrain, evokes the powerful allure of this “evil love,” leaving listeners captivated by its pulsating energy.
The Album: Radios and Rainbows
Radios and Rainbows is a collection that showcases Pierson’s versatility and unrelenting creativity. She describes the album as an “eclectic group of songs,” ranging from anthems and dance tracks to a disco tune, all with an overall upbeat vibe. Pierson’s aim with this album was to create something positive, a soundtrack to uplift listeners in what she describes as “dark times.” True to her word, the album radiates an infectious energy, promising a musical journey that’s both fun and empowering.
This album stands out not only because it marks Pierson’s return after a long hiatus, but also due to the star-studded collaborations it boasts. One notable track, “Every Day Is Halloween,” was co-written and performed with global pop icon Sia. Released initially as a standalone single in October 2023, it brings a fun and spooky twist to the album. Other notable contributors include Bleu, Chris Braide, Jimmy Harry, Tim Andersen of Ima Robot, and Sam Dixon, the bassist for Adele.
A Personal and Intimate Performance
In support of Radios and Rainbows, Pierson has expressed her desire to take her music on the road in a very personal way. She plans to perform a series of stripped-down shows in intimate venues. These performances, Pierson says, will allow the emotions and feelings of the songs to come through, letting her unique vocal style take center stage. It’s clear that Pierson is invested not only in the creation of her music but also in its connection with her audience.
“My creativity has been unlocked,” Pierson enthuses, “and I still have a lot more songs in me.” This suggests that Radios and Rainbows is just the beginning of a new chapter in Pierson’s musical journey, with even more to come in the near future.
Track List of Radios and Rainbows
The full track list for Radios and Rainbows reveals a diverse range of songs:
- Evil Love
- Take Me Back to the Party
- Every Day is Halloween
- The Beauty of it All
- Pillow Queen
- Wings
- Radios and Rainbows
- Higher Place
- Dream On
- Always Till Now
- Living in a Monet
- Give Your Heart to Science
Each title hints at the themes of joy, creativity, and perhaps a touch of whimsy that have been hallmarks of Pierson’s career both with The B-52's and as a solo artist.
Conclusion
With Radios and Rainbows, Kate Pierson cements her legacy as a versatile and fearless artist. From its high-energy beats to its more reflective moments, this album is a celebration of music’s ability to bring light into the world. Whether through the feel-good revenge of “Evil Love” or the collaborative magic of “Every Day Is Halloween,” Pierson’s new music invites fans on a vibrant, eclectic journey. With her voice and creative spirit still as strong as ever, Pierson proves that she is far from finished—and there is much more music to come.