The candour and vulnerability of Katie & the Lichen is so instantly endearing. You feel as though you have a personal report with this band after hearing a few songs. Kiss and Run is a record that builds on itself. As the tracks fly by the songs achieve higher and higher plateaus of magnetism. See for instance ‘Something So Important’ and how smoothly it glides into the burner ‘Raise Your Fur’. Instrumentally, The Lichen sound like a punk band trying to play with the most twee of instrumentations—ukeleles, melodicas, and a tight little pop kit. It is an interesting effect reminiscent of certain K Records creations. Which is fitting seeing as how these melodious Lichen are touring with the inimitable Calvin Johnson this month. They will be touching down in Edmonton on July 16th at the Elevation Room. Don’t miss it! More information here.