With his previous masterpiece, 2015‘s ‘Fragments’, behind him, Texas-based synth-pop artist Mr.Kitty “confronts listeners with a synth-driven emotional journey through a mental breakdown” on his newly released album, ‘A.I.’, out via Negative Gain. Mr. Kitty will be performing at this year’s SXSW Music Festival on March 18.
Feel free to introduce yourself to our readers. How did you become “Mr.Kitty”?
My name is Forrest and I make music. I cried on a pile of synths and drum machines and got electrocuted.
Your latest album, ‘A.I.’ was just released. What are your first thoughts now that it’s out?
People can see who I really am and experience my reality.
Tell us a bit about ‘A.I.’. What can listeners expect from this album? What’s the general zeitgeist?
Sincerity. It feels like going through a mental breakdown in slow motion.
‘A.I.’ is set to be released on CD and cassette on May 5th, no vinyl? And what is your favorite format to listen to music on?
Vinyl is expensive. I listen to music digitally because it’s accessible.
You collaborate with New York-based dreampop artist PASTEL GHOST on this album, as well as Megurine Luka. How did these collaborations come about?
I showed Vivian the track and I asked if she wanted to be on it. Megurine Luka lives inside of the computer, so she’s always there.
What’s the first musical memory you’ve had? Something that’s always stuck with you?
The first time I learned that you could make music using a computer blew my mind.
You’ll be performing on March 18th at the Townsend during SXSW. Have you ever played SXSW before?
I’ve played SXSW every year since 2011. Always a good time!
The Austin music scene is so omnipresent and so diverse, how have you been able to stand out gig-wise in such a city?
Be scary and create chaos. Also, don’t suck.
I’m going to list off some artists and have you say the first thing that comes to mind:
New Order? The only reason to like Mondays.
FKA Twigs? Alien princess with a voice that sounds like glass.
Icky Blossoms? “Sex To The Devil”. I saw them open for TR/ST and The Faint.
HEALTH? Homeboys since 2008. Favorite live band.
Depeche Mode? I don’t get the hype, but Violator is lit.
What’s next for you? A string of dates to go along with ‘A.I.’? Working on even more new music – or is it too early for that?
I’m touring in the summer, but I can’t say much more. I’m ready to go back to sleep.
Sarah Medeiros