Lucy Fitzgerald 
Kat Reinhert’s new EP NORMAL marks an exciting new chapter in her creative journey — one that shines with emotional honesty, rich textures, and a heartfelt invitation to slow down and appreciate the beauty in ordinary life. Released on November 7, 2025, the project reflects Reinhert’s evolution as an artist who has long bridged genres with soulful ease, but now steps into an even more personal space.
Each track in NORMAL carries an intimate sincerity, as if Reinhert is sitting across from the listener, sharing stories from her own world. The production—handled entirely by Reinhert herself—feels both organic and deeply considered, blending layers of acoustic instruments with subtle electronic tones. Working out of her home studio for six months, she shaped an atmosphere that’s warm, patient, and human, with the kind of attention to detail that makes every song feel handcrafted.
The opening songs, “Once Upon a Time” and “Heartbreak Divide” (previously released as singles), immediately draw listeners into her narrative depth. At the same time, the title track, “NORMAL,” beautifully articulates her motivation for the entire project. Inspired by her experiences submitting to NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, Reinhert wanted to celebrate everyday life—the small, steady joys that often go unnoticed. In a world obsessed with extremes, her message feels refreshing and deeply needed.
“Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat,” inspired by the beloved cookbook, brings a clever lyrical metaphor to the table, connecting sensory experience and self-expression. “I Had Other Plans,” rooted in a moment observed on social media, strikes a balance between reflection and gentle humor, closing the record on an uplifting yet grounded note. The strings, performed by Sara Caswell (violin) and Jessie Reagan-Mann (cello), add a cinematic glow to the arrangements. At the same time, the mixing and mastering by Aaron Nevezie and Alex DeTurk at Bunker Studios gives the EP a cohesive polish.
As someone who has followed Reinhert’s work for years, I can say NORMAL feels like her most honest and resonant release yet. Personally, I found it moving to hear an artist embrace imperfection and simplicity so fully—it reminds me that sincerity never goes out of style. The EP doesn’t shout for attention; it invites you in quietly and leaves you thinking long after the last note fades.
Kat Reinhert’s dedication to music and education—teaching at Berklee College of Music and co-founding Songwriting for Music Educators—is mirrored in this EP’s thoughtful craftsmanship. NORMAL is a gentle triumph that rewards close listening. Before you go, make sure to follow Kat Reinhert on all streaming platforms and social media, and add NORMAL to your playlists. This collection deserves a spot in your rotation—whether for a quiet morning, a reflective evening, or any time you want to reconnect with something beautifully human.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
