With 2011’s The Waking Sleep, singer-songwriter Katie Herzig moved from her folky young-woman-with-guitar style to using layers of synths and drum loops to craft a quirky new sound. But just as she was set to go out on tour to support that album, her mother lost her battle with cancer.
As Herzig continued the tour, she had difficulty writing about her mother—or about anything else for that matter. Finally a chilling song called “Forgiveness” emerged, and the rest of her new album followed.
Walk Through Walls does not break new sonic territory, but as you might expect, death and loss are major themes. There are more than a few references to heaven and the afterlife. All of the songs, even the ones about death, are laced with hope and love.
You may have heard her music on television shows (“Grey’s Anatomy” and “Bones”), movie trailers (Saving Mr. Banks), or commercials (Dove chocolate), but there is more to Herzig than just catchy tunes. Walk Through Walls shows that she is an artist with depth who continues to grow. (+180 Records)
About the Author
Robert J. Keeley is a professor of education emeritus at Calvin University and leads music at 14th St. Christian Reformed Church in Holland, Mich.