Cat Clyde's 'Mud Blood Bone': A Raw Journey Through Heartbreak and Freedom
In an exclusive interview, Canadian singer-songwriter Cat Clyde opens up about her brilliant fourth album, 'Mud Blood Bone', a visceral blend of folk, Americana, rock, and country. The 26-year-old artist, hailed as one of Ontario's most distinctive voices since Alanis Morissette, delves into the painful breakup that inspired the record, her chaotic childhood, and her unwavering commitment to a nomadic lifestyle.
Rootless Existence and Musical Freedom
When asked where she is based, Clyde responds with characteristic candor: "I'm not really based anywhere." This rootlessness, explored in her 2023 album 'Down Rounder', is something she embraces as freedom. Currently rehearsing in Seattle, Washington, with her band for an upcoming tour, Clyde's life is a testament to her roving ways. She finds joy in traveling, crashing on friends' sofas, and maintaining a sense of liberty that defines her personal and artistic identity.
Inspired by Heartbreak and Rebirth
'Mud Blood Bone' is deeply influenced by the end of Clyde's long-term relationship with former bandmate Strummer Jasson. The album opens with "Where Is My Love", a yodelling wolf-howl of despair set against electric guitar snarls and acoustic strums, capturing the emptiness of loss. Clyde describes the breakup as a "really painful experience" that led to a profound rebirth, symbolized by the album's title. She explains, "I felt like I went through a rebirth, through the mud, blood and changing in my bones – I changed my whole life, every aspect of it."
Musical Style and Personal Growth
Clyde's distinctive singing style, reminiscent of Sheryl Crow meets Patsy Cline, developed as a way to regulate her nervous system during a chaotic childhood in rural Ontario. "I moved around a lot – my parents were pretty chaotic people," she recalls. Music has since become a tool for self-discovery, with 'Mud Blood Bone' tackling themes of patriarchy, identity, and personal evolution. Songs like "I Am Now" and "Night Eyes" showcase her ability to convey raw emotion, with the latter recorded live in an emotional studio session that left both Clyde and pianist Eric Olsen in tears.
New Relationships and Creative Expression
Now in a new relationship with a London-based musician who plays with folk-rock artist LA Salami, Clyde finds inspiration in this connection, reflected in tracks like the gorgeous closer "Another Time". Despite the long-distance aspect, her nomadic lifestyle makes it manageable. She also shares a lighter moment from creating the music video for "Man's World", where she disguised herself as a boxer to fool a male rival, joking, "I really just wanted to punch a guy in the head."
Looking Forward with Clarity
Completing 'Mud Blood Bone' has given Clyde a sense of closure and clarity. She reflects on how the breakup forced her to relearn values, set boundaries, and stand up for herself, ultimately evolving into a better version. When asked about her future direction, she smiles and states firmly, "Forward." The album, out now, stands as a powerful testament to her resilience and artistic growth, blending heartache with humor and a relentless pursuit of freedom.
