Inside the cinematic folk-rock world of Kissing Thieves

Kissing Thieves is the musical moniker of Stefanie Fields, a Bellingham, Washington songwriter who turns weather, unrest, and emotion into melody. Rooted in the moody rhythm of the Pacific Northwest, Kissing Thieves builds songs that shimmer with honesty and cinematic depth — from the fire of protest anthem “Old Ass White Men” to the slow-bloom groove of “Davie Street.” Released through Washingtones Records, their music is driven by conviction and curiosity alike: bold enough to call out injustice, tender enough to soundtrack a moment alone in the rain.

SNQLX: You’re based in Bellingham, WA. How has that city, and the larger Pacific Northwest, shaped your voice as Kissing Thieves?

KT: The Pacific Northwest is well-known for its rainy days, and the weather here has certainly contributed to my artistic style. I’ve found myself to be far more creative during the moody, introspective months of fall, winter, and spring than when the sun is shining and everyone’s attention gets pulled outside. (“Quick! Before it’s gone!”) Additionally, Bellingham is an arts town with so many talented artists and musicians here; it’s easy to feel encouraged and inspired.

SNQLX: Your music bends folk into rock but also feels cinematic and immersive. How would you personally describe your sound?

KT: Well thank you! This is a tough one to answer as I feel I’m still in the process of discovering my sound. I like different styles of music (from oldies to classic rock to edm), so the music I make has different styles as well. Like any art medium, I think it’s fun to experiment and explore. Ultimately I hope the signature of our songs is that of originality, resonance, and emotional depth.

SNQLX: “Old Ass White Men” is a bold title and song. What sparked that one, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?

KT: This is our “good trouble” song. I originally wrote it when the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. I had an overflow of emotion and needed somewhere to put it. As the song took shape, it became about congress in general, then the US government as a whole, and eventually (as evident by the title) about the old ass mentality we see prevalent across this country. I honestly wish this song had become dated and irrelevant over the years, but it’s sadly even more applicable now. I hope protest songs like this one propel listeners to take action in whatever ways they can – speak up, show up, rally, volunteer, vote! Don’t hesitate to call a spade a spade. And don’t take shit lying down.

SNQLX: Your new single“Davie Street”is described as a “smokey dance song” years in the making. What’s the story behind it?

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