Based in Cincinnati with ties to NW Ohio, singer-songwriter and multi-
instrumentalist Catlea’s musical style spans an eclectic spectrum, from
alt-indie to rock, to pop and EDM. The singer’s voice ranges from angelic to raw and powerful. Complimenting the distinctive vocals, Catlea plays piano, guitar and ukulele.
Over three years of writing, producing and perfecting ten new alt-indie songs, Catlea has worked closely with producer Jason Boshoff (Ed Sheeran, Josh Groban, David Gray, Rufus Wainwright) of Room to Studios in Barce- lona, Spain. The full-length album, “Language Barrier”, is expected to release in February.
Toledo City Paper sat down with Catlea to gather more information on this talented artist.
How would you describe 2024?
2024 has been all about growth. From doing more shows and writing more music to becoming more comfortable in my own skin. If I had to describe it in just a few words, it’d be “progress, change, and growth.”
You released your latest EP “Bones” on Halloween. What was the creative process like?
Well each song had its own individual process, and with the title track, ‘Bones,’ it was an interesting one. I actually started to write that song around the same time I wrote ‘Lying’ and ‘Crumbling’ but it ended up get- ting shelved. It took almost a year before I found the words again. I sang it for my team in Barcelona, and they asked immediately “Why haven’t we recorded this one yet? This should go on the album.” So I went home, finished the lyrics and we recorded it soon after that.
Who are your musical influences?
A little bit of everyone, honestly. From Pink Floyd to Ariana Grande to PVRIS. I’ve got a lot of different styles bopping around in my head when it comes to how I create music.
You sing and also play piano, guitar and ukulele. Is there another instrument you’d like to tackle?
I actually recently picked up the saxophone, and I’ve been learning drums and bass as well. As for one I haven’t learned yet that I’d be interested in is the theremin. It’s such a unique instrument. I honestly still have no idea how it works, even after having it explained
to me multiple times.
Your upcoming album, “Language Barrier” comes out soon. Tell us about it?
‘Language Barrier’ is a concept album. It tells a story, from start to finish, about the process of realizing you’re in a toxic relationship, leaving it, and all of the moments and emotions that come along with that. It’s about finding your own voice and power through the process of grief. That makes it sound sad, but it’s actually pretty upbeat!
What are your ties to Northwest Ohio?
I was born and raised in Cincinnati. My sister, Toledoan Emily Rippe Desmond, is the reason I am in Toledo so often, and I thank her for that! It’s a beautiful city.
Besides the new album, what’s in store for you for 2025?
I’ll be traveling to Europe in late February to do a UK tour and to record my second album in Barcelona!