The lush and captivating melodies of Kacey Johansing, a San Francisco-based indie-folk songstress, will soon be wafting into the world from her solo debut album, Many Seasons, via Porto Franco Records. Photographer Cecilia Austin spent a day with Johansing, snapping a few shots and discussing the source of her ethereal allure.
Kacey Johansing: “Many Seasons”
Kacey Johansing: \”Many Seasons\”
We often see you perform with other bands (Honeycomb and Michael Musika). Is collaboration an important part of your creative process?
Very much so. I’m really excited about the music that friends from my community are making. It’s really hard to turn down the opportunity to play music with people that you admire so much. It’s overwhelming at times, but I think that being involved in musical projects other than my own is very important for my sanity and also for my creative process.
I’ve always been drawn to collective creative projects. It’s really powerful to be a part of something that multiple individuals are contributing to and passionate about. I also love being challenged by learning to play different instruments.
Yeah! How many instruments can you play?
I can play all the basic ones, like keyboard, drums, guitar, and a little bass. Drums is a new thing for me, which is really exciting. I would love to learn to play something completely different from what I’m used to, like the trumpet or the clarinet. I also have the pleasure of playing with a vibraphonist (Andrew Maguire). Vibes are an incredibly beautiful instrument that I have always been drawn to.
Are you self-taught?
For the most part. I studied a bit as a child and played in bands throughout high school. I also attended music school in Boston but found it to be too competitive and industry focused, so I left after two years. I’m grateful for what I gained from formally studying music, but I have also greatly benefited from the musical immersion I’ve had since living in San Francisco.
How did you begin playing out in San Francisco?
I began playing out by going to open mics. It helped to break the ice.
How do you feel about what’s happening in the SF music scene right now?
I’m really excited about it, and am I’m honored to be a part of it. I’m super excited about any community coming together to represent something special and unique.
I think that what makes the music scene in this area so special is our inherent connection to the natural landscapes that surround us. You’ll often find incredible bands playing in eucalyptus groves just north of the city, or perhaps in some haunted lodge on the coast near Big Sur. It’s magical.
How would you describe your music to people who’ve never heard it before?
That’s always a difficult question to answer. I would classify it as indie/soul with strong roots in folk. It’s pretty eclectic. I’ve always had a broad taste in music and am constantly developing as a musician. [Because] the album took nearly 3 years to complete, the feeling changes quite often.
Is there a common theme that holds together all these songs?
Yes, a few themes. San Francisco…water…transition and transformation.