FEATURED FIND: KEIR TALKS “SAY LOVE,” BECOMING AN ARTIST, AND GHOSTS

Image by Ania Rewieńska Shrimpton

If you’re looking for longing vocals fueled by heartache, and modern songs nourished by the greats of the past, you’ve come to the right place.

Meet Keir. The Bristol native started writing at age 15 and never stopped. Now 25, he’s been making waves since 2016 - when he released his self-titled debut. Standout track “Probably” caught the ears of Indie Nation with its bluesy vibes and powerful vocals.

KEIR - “PROBABLY”

Next came singles “Squeeze Me” and “Night and Day,” leading to a tour with The Drums and record deal with Universal Germany. “Squeeze Me” walks along the intersection of darkness and romance, anger and love. It’s inherently human- managing to describe the seemingly indescribable dualities of emotion. With a driving beat, singable minor melody, and explosive chorus, it commands your attention in the same way Alex Turner and Hozier do. “Squeeze Me” is dramatic, sensual, and shows what modern rock music can sound like at its best. The music video echoes those themes.

KEIR - “SQUEEZE ME”

A master of duality, Keir puts words to complicated emotions again on “Shiver.” Centered around the awkward-in-between area of love and lust, optimism and pessimism, “Shiver” addresses contradictions with grace and ease.

“Say Love,” a single off of his most recent EP shows a gentler side of Keir. While sonically softer, his unique voice and lyricism remain a constant throughout his music. Lyrically, the song feels appropriate for this unpredictable year. As no one can really plan or predict what life will throw at us next, “Say Love” makes those worries feel less lonely. He wishes the best for someone he feels close to, hoping that they will find love.  With a black and white music video, showing people of all ages crossing a bridge, the video has a nostalgic, tender feel. The video serves as a reminder of the symbolic bridges we all cross in our own individual worlds.

We had the chance to ask Keir some questions about his songwriting, ghosts, and path to music.

WE ARE: THE GUARD: Hey Keir! Thanks so much for taking the time to answer these questions. How have you been lately? Has COVID-19 impacted your daily routine?

KEIR: I’m good! Yeah, of course like everyone I’ve been affected, but to be honest I think it’s important to remain positive and get on with what you can. I’ve been writing lots and recording new songs.

WE ARE: THE GUARD: You recently released a stunning music video for "Say Love!" Can you tell us about the making of the video, as well as the creative process in writing the song?

KEIR: It was a very chilly morning in Bristol. I invited my friends, family, and band to come along and be in it. It was hilarious watching my mum try and act natural in front of a camera. Everyone was actually so good though. The song is a very emotional one, I suppose. In a way, it is about wishing the best for someone you will never see anymore.

WATG: Your voice is stunning. Can you tell us more about your background in music? How did you get started?

KEIR: Oh thanks! I don’t really remember really, it’s just always been there. It’s like trying to remember the first time you had a sandwich. For me, I’ve always been obsessed with music and how it is made.

WATG: Did you always see yourself becoming an artist?

KEIR: Hmm... I always admired artists- they were always such interesting people to me. David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, Miles Davis...they intrigued me so much. I try not to think about myself too much. I just like to get in and make the work.

WATG: Who's one artist you love that needs more attention right now?

KEIR: I love a French artist called Pomme!

POMME - “magie bleue”

WATG: I love ending with a fun one! Do you believe in ghosts? Have you ever had a paranormal encounter?

KEIR: I absolutely believe in energy not dying, if that kinda answers your question. I never had a ghost encounter, but I’ll wait!

Keir’s A Thorn With A Face is out on all streaming platforms!

Arielle Tindel is from Cleveland, Ohio. She recently graduated from Berklee College of Music with degrees in Music Business Marketing and Songwriting. In her free time, Arielle can be found gardening or playing bass.