Cate Tomlinson - “Damage Control”
On the blog with the second single from her upcoming EP, it’s California-based Cate Tomlinson and “Damage Control.”
The track begins with some vibey, reverberating guitar strums, setting the mood for the appearance of Tomlinson’s vocal as she supplies the words: “I’m signing off… I think I’ve had enough for awhile…” And even with just these first few words, the song deeply resonates with its listener, as most people have come to understand how spiritually poisonous it can be to remain “signed in” for too long.
For the entire first verse, it remains reasonably sparse, with just the guitar and vocals and a pad in the back for some atmosphere. But fear not, sweet music lovers, because the empty production in the verse makes the chorus kick you in the chest. And with the addition of backing vocals and percussion, Tomlinson spoon-feeds us the fantastic hook as she soars into her upper register.
And just when you think the song has reached its maximum width, “Damage Control” throws us some heavier drums and vocal harmonies. If you do not have the luxury of pressing play at this moment, imagine the music of Mazzy Star and a vocal akin to Phoebe Bridgers, because that is exactly what you’re going to get and it is glorious.
-TM