CMAT is unlike anything you’ve seen (or heard) before. When her music was first described to me last year as country-pop, I wasn’t prepared for the music and theatrics that were to come from Irish singer-songwriter CMAT (Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson). As an Appalachian-born American myself, this wasn’t the “country” I was prepared for. This was wild, sometimes raunchy, always entertaining Euro-pop… but with the subtle hints of country lyricism that make her unique.
The Very Sexy CMAT Band took the stage at the Showbox in Seattle to a packed and energized crowd. But instead of taking the stage with her band, a single spotlight shone in the audience, revealing CMAT already standing among us as she opened with “Janis Joplining.” Fresh from her debut performance at Coachella, she walked into the Showbox with bold, playful energy.
She eventually made her way to the stage and launched into the irresistibly catchy, campy chaos of “The Jamie Oliver Petrol Station.” It became clear almost immediately that CMAT is a natural connector. Some artists talk to the audience, but CMAT talks with them. She complimented people on their hair, pointed at someone and shouted, “Hey, I have that shirt!,” and carried herself with the kind of warmth that made her feel like an old friend. Her band matched her energy, playful and expressive, clearly having as much fun as everyone watching…