Everything about this single from Kimmi Bitter brings to mind the best of classic country. From the backing vocals to the way her voice catches, the pacing to the sorrowful melody, the twang to the theme of heartbreak, it’s all here. Reminiscent of the likes of Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline, this takes us right back to another age. But such is the quality of delivery that it stands up on its own merit and is much more than just a tribute to the sounds of the past. Bitter says of the song: “‘I Dream of You’ is an original song recorded to satisfy my nostalgic obsession to revitalise the bygone era of a sweet and sad 1960’s style country ballad and bring country music back to its homegrown roots.” Indeed, “…sweet and sad,” is the perfect description for a song that pulls on the heartstrings in such a tuneful manner. The song begins with Bitter’s pure country vocal: “I dream of you,” then we sway through its gentle rhythms until her lilting voice soars again at the end. The video, filmed and edited by Willis Farnsworth, features Bitter in various locations, remembering the times she’d been with her lover, depicted in home-video-style nostalgic footage. It’s a gorgeously shot visual, smartly put together and effectively conveying the song’s narrative.
Thanks to her debut EP ‘West Side Twang’, Bitter was nominated for her hometown San Diego Music Awards best country/Americana artist of 2020. Now, her long-awaited first full record is almost here. Bitter follows a relentless touring schedule, travelling round the US in her ’95 Dodge camper van. In her shows, just as on the forthcoming record, you’ll find blues, rock ‘n’ roll, country twang – an exciting blend of roots sounds and influences. Check out upcoming dates here. Enjoy some heartache and heartbreak from Kimmi Bitter while you wait for the new album, due in 2023.
