Alex Catchings Overcomes His Doubts and Finds His Voice on Tender Debut Album Off-Ramp

"I never considered my anemic relationship to singing fit for public consumption," admits Seattle-based singer/songwriter Alex Catchings. "Then I heard Elliott Smith, Jeff Tweedy, Sufjan Stevens, and Sam Beam."

Between running an education business and teaching at the University of Washington, Alex has never stopped writing music and playing guitar. What began as a form of self-soothing and quiet musical exploration eventually led to Off-Ramp, the artist's debut album, and one I am honoured to share with you today.

Over eleven tracks, and accompanied by a ridiculously talented lineup of musicians, Alex tells his story in full. He even revisits songs he first wrote as a teenager (Bargain Basement and Like the Nineties), and gives them an entirely fresh lease on life.

Tunes like Off-Ramp and Mongrel, both featuring the utterly beautiful vocals of Laurel Bentley, are another two examples of the musical depth on display here. Rich, organic, and undeniably moving, they give Alex's art room to breathe, and in the process, make themselves right at home in your head.

Other favourites from the record include Borderline, Paperback book, and Medication. That said, if you're not experiencing Off-Ramp in its entirety, you're seriously missing a trick! It's a perfect album from start to finish!

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