Creativity imbues the life of songwriter and vocalist, Kirsty Almeida. From caringly crafting her albums and live performances, to fostering social enterprise and mentoring her fellow creatives – each facet of the Gibraltarian artist’s career reflects the sanctity and magic of art and self-expression.

Kirsty now lives in the North of England, laying roots in locations that resonate with her spirituality and stir her appreciation of nature. After her music career took off in 2010, exposing her to the realities of the major label machine, Kirsty withdrew to a place of creative autonomy. Therein she found the freedom to create and release music as she pleased, to collaborate on projects musical and entrepreneurial (such as Manchester’s fondly-remembered arts and wellbeing centre, The Wonder Inn) and most importantly, to raise her child.

Motherhood has profoundly influenced Kirsty’s artistic outlook and the music comprising her first album in five years, Moonbird. Its mature songcraft: deceptively simple, with a worldly wisdom – represents an artist reborn, its warm storytelling and eclectic arrangements manifesting her courage and growth. The singer who gave the world a wondrous collection of winter songs eschews the darkness of the season, bringing light and positivity to the fore.

Title track Moonbird realizes psychedelia within serenity, while I’m Going to Love You encapsulates the sound of the New Orleans saloon or Hootenanny celebration. Heartfelt and soul-steeped, each song reflects the music Kirsty loves and derives from the simple and transformative pleasure of playing music.

Her affinity with 18th and 19th century parlour guitars also informs her songwriting. Instruments that embody femininity, they lend what Kirsty calls an ‘indescribable magic’ to the music they deliver.

Kirsty Almeida is an artist in every sense, who having returned to her foremost passion, is creating her finest work to date.