This Is The Kit

Biography

This Is The Kit is the musical project led by British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Kate Stables, originating from Winchester, England. Stables began the project in 2003, initially as a solo endeavor, before it evolved into a collaborative band with a revolving lineup of musicians. After formative years in Bristol, where she immersed herself in the local music scene, Stables relocated to Paris, though the band's creative heart remains closely tied to Bristol's vibrant community.[1][3][4]

The band's debut album, 'Krülle Bol' (2008), produced by John Parish, established their reputation for thoughtful, folk-inflected songwriting and intricate arrangements. Subsequent releases, including 'Wriggle Out the Restless' (2010), 'Bashed Out' (2015), 'Moonshine Freeze' (2017), 'Off Off On' (2020), and 'Careful of Your Keepers' (2023), have garnered critical acclaim and expanded their audience. Collaborations with producers like Aaron Dessner (The National) and Gruff Rhys (Super Furry Animals) have further enriched their sound, blending folk, indie, and subtle experimental elements.[1][2][3][5]

This Is The Kit's music is characterized by Stables' gentle vocals, poetic lyricism, and a distinctive blend of acoustic and electric textures. The band has become a fixture in British folk and indie circles, earning praise from BBC Radio 6 DJs and sharing stages with artists such as The National, Iron & Wine, and Sharon Van Etten. Their legacy is marked by a commitment to musical community, collaboration, and a quietly innovative approach to songwriting.[1][3][4]

Fun Facts

• Kate Stables is based in Paris, but the band's creative community remains rooted in Bristol, UK.[3][4]
• The band was featured in a BBC documentary episode hosted by Guy Garvey, who championed their music and argued for a Mercury Prize nomination.[1]
• This Is The Kit has opened for notable artists including The National, Iron & Wine, and Jose Gonzales.[3]
• Their music has been selected for compilation albums alongside Animal Collective and Vashti Bunyan, highlighting their standing in the contemporary folk scene.[1]

Members

• Neil Smith - guitar
• Kate Stables - original
• Jesse D. Vernon
• Jamie Whitby-Coles - drums (drum set)

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• John Parish - Producer and early supporter; Parish produced the debut album and is known for his work with PJ Harvey. (Krülle Bol (2008)) [2008]

Key Collaborators

• Jesse D. Vernon - Longtime collaborator, producer, and partner; contributed to songwriting, production, and live performances. (Wriggle Out the Restless (2010), ongoing band member) [2003–present]
• Rozi Plain - Band member, bassist, backing vocalist, and frequent live collaborator. (Wriggle Out the Restless (2010), Careful of Your Keepers (2023)) [2010–present]
• Aaron Dessner - Producer and collaborator; produced 'Bashed Out' and contributed musically. (Bashed Out (2015)) [2014–2015]
• Gruff Rhys - Producer of sixth album, creative influence. (Careful of Your Keepers (2023)) [2023]
• Neil Smith - Guitarist and core band member. (Careful of Your Keepers (2023), live performances) [2010s–present]
• Jamie Whitby-Coles - Drummer and core band member. (Careful of Your Keepers (2023), live performances) [2010s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Sharon Van Etten - Publicly cited This Is The Kit as her 'Favorite New Artist' in a Pitchfork interview. (General inspiration, no direct collaborations noted) [2013]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Bashed Out (Bashed Out)
2. Earthquake (Wriggle Out the Restless)
3. Two Wooden Spoons (Where It Lives)
4. Keep Going (Off Off On)
5. Our Socks Forever More (Krülle Bol)
6. Two Wooden Spoons (Krülle Bol)
7. The South Atlantic (The Last Flight)
8. Moonshine Freeze (Moonshine Freeze)
9. Bullet Proof (Moonshine Freeze)
10. The South Atlantic (The Last Flight)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #alternative-rock, #indie-folk, #indie-rock