KAIA FOWLER‘s reemergence as a performing artist in 2008 led to the release of her solo CD, Seams of My Heart in 2010. Since then, Kaia has expanded into the Madison area and beyond performing regularly and selling her CD at shows and online.

The recording project enabled Kaia to work with outstanding musicians including Randy Sabien, who brought his violin and mandolin wizardry to the album, and Sam Steffke whose keyboard skills adorn the jazzy song “Let Him Be.” Local dobro master Paul Bast also appears on three songs on the album.

Following the release of Seams of My Heart, Kaia was invited to play her song “Who Are You?” as a guest at Michelle Shocked’s concert in Madison, September of 2010. Encouraged by Shocked, who wrote “Thanks for sharing your voice and talent with my audience, Kaia. What a beautiful song!”

Kaia’s songwriting has been compared to Joni Mitchell’s for its lyrical metaphors, intense melodies and experimental chord use. Her voice, while distinct, has subtle similarities to Natalie Merchant, being similarly supple, strong and alluring. Other influences have included Carole King, the Indigo Girls, Carrie Newcomer, Sarah McClachlan, Patty Griffin and Paul Simon.

Seams of My Heart earned a glowing review from the Americana Gazette and airplay on the Women of Substance online radio station. Andy Ziehli of The Americana Gazette says of Kaia’s songs, “Each song is very well written, with a true authenticity of life. You can picture yourself or someone you know in each story line.” He continues, “Fowler is a tremendous lyricist. Her lyrics paint pictures and her musical notes add the color…” (Aug.-Sept. 2010)