Toronto-based songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and long-time Fast Romantics member Kirty returns with a new single and video titled “This Year’s Been Hell”. Although written before the pandemic hit, the aptly titled tune provides a timely backdrop to this incredibly tumultuous year. “This Year’s Been Hell” was inspired by Kirty’s decision to press pause on her own life to work through the struggle of a close relative in their final chapter of life. Co-produced with long-time collaborator Josh Van Tassel and Fast Romantics bandmate/songwriting partner Matthew Angus, the dreamy, early 90s-inspired pop rock track provides a first glimpse into her eagerly anticipated third solo album set for a 2021 release through Postwar Records. Featuring Kirty’s lush, ethereal vocals, paired with moody guitars and warm, glassy retro synths, “This Year’s Been Hell” is premiering now via Indie88 and is available on all major DSPs. Click HERE to listen and purchase.
“It’s a wild, wild coincidence that I wrote and recorded this song and held onto it long enough to release the track in the middle of a pandemic, civil unrest, environmental crisis, and a political circus,” shares Kirty. “This Year’s Been Hell’ is about working through pain and loss and understanding that there are times when you need to put everything else in your life on hold. Just for a bit, and focus on the people around you. It’s about witnessing someone experience their final chapter of this grand ol’ life, and the mix of feelings that bubble up from that experience.”
Watch + Share the video for ‘This Year’s Been Hell” HERE
Kirty’s forthcoming LP follows her 2016 acclaimed self-titled sophomore release which the Toronto Star dubbed “your new favourite thing” and the National Post praised “it makes a fine soundtrack for everything from a walk in the park to an evening under the stars… and fits right in on a playlist with the likes of Jenny Lewis, Lana Del Rey and Neko Case.” The release found success on CBC Radio’s Top 20 chart and garnered international placements in commercials and TV including landing lead single and one of CBC Music’s Songs You Need To Hear “That’s Not Me” on a global marketing campaign for EOS, as well as notable sync features in popular teen drama Riverdale and Canadian sitcom Kim’s Convenience.