Ball of Wax 35 Songs: Kate Noson – “Fly”

Kate Noson‘s voice was first heard by Ball of Wax listeners harmonizing with Sam Russell on Volume 30’s “All These Passing Fields.” Sam, plotting his own love song for Volume 35, recommended Kate’s country ballad”Fly” for this volume, and I’m glad he did. She has proven herself a more than able vocal accompanist, but it’s wonderful to hear her take the lead on one of her own songs. As with a lot of these songs, “Fly” is not just a straightforward declaration of love. She seems to grapple here – as many of us do – with the balance between surrendering to one’s own creative passion and drive and making oneself available, emotionally and physically, to loved ones. “I want it all and I want it now,” starts the first verse, but by the end of the last verse she sings “Where are you my love? I’m ready to come home,” and closes with a humbled variation on the chorus. It’s a beautifully rendered song, relatable and intimate yet devoid of cliche. Welcome to Ball of Wax, Kate!