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Weathering The Storm (FREE online gig next week)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

What: Join me for a weather-themed mix of Penfriend/She Makes War songs, with at least one shiny new one (probably two)! When?: Wednesday 29th November 2023, 8pm GMT Where: Here ... Read more

I said I would…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

During last month’s online gig I said I was going to play live more regularly – so I’m playing a completely different set of songs (including a BRAND new one ... Read more

Feel the weight of the world, feel the weight of the universe

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

This is the last video in this little series, and this is your last chance to grab two FREE / pay what you can live albums before they disappear in ... Read more

Clouds collide…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

When I listen closely to the lyrics I wrote more than a decade ago, my heart aches for that younger woman. “Others love, I stay rooted to the groundLosing, never ... Read more

I’d like to delete myself…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Delete: the song that started out as a joke about using a loop pedal, and turned into a high point of almost every live set I performed from mid 2011- ... Read more

I really f*cked this up…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

…or did I?!! Sometimes things go “wrong” at a gig…but it usually just makes things more interesting. Here’s an “extended” version of “Exotic Monsters” from my recent livestream which hopefully ... Read more

Remember the summer when everyone stayed at home?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News

Remember the time I wrote a song about my own imagined death? Here’s “Black Car” from last week’s livestream. Today I released the whole gig as a live album, available ... Read more

Live from Nottingham: online gig next Wednesday!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

It’s been a while…I moved city, painted some furniture bright pink and have been auditioning local Post Offices for the lofty honour of handling packages of music and merch for ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 012 – 5/9/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

FLASH SALE for Friday 13th…anniversary of “Disarm”!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

My debut album “Disarm” is 13 today, so I’m running a flash sale to celebrate! Get 25% off: + “Disarm” on CD+ “Disarm” on vinyl+ “Disarm” demos and rarities collection ... Read more

I can’t do this any more // Tea & Empathy Episode 004

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process

Have you ever wondered what happens when you click “BUY” on an indie artist’s products? In Tea & Empathy Episode 004, join me as I package up orders from my ... Read more

I heart Bandcamp + last day of my BIG SALE

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process

TL;DR: House Clearance Sale – last day to get up to 50% off music and merch! In 2009 I was living in a rented maisonette in South London where, for ... Read more

Why I NEVER lie // Tea & Empathy Episode 003

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process

Authenticity is a word we hear all the time, especially in relation to how we should present ourselves online. After something big happened recently, I wanted to talk about why ... Read more

Remember when Pledge Music stole our money?!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

For this new article I was invited to share my thoughts on how artists can take control of their online presence, instead of leaving it all in the hands of ... Read more

Should you join Threads? Here’s a better question…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process

“Oh no, not another one!” I hear you cry, as Meta’s Twitter-like new social media platform Threads takes hold. I’ve been having a nice time on there, but wanted to ... Read more

AI RUINED my album artwork! Photoshop Generative FAIL

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

➡️ I got excited about using Photoshop’s new Generative Fill tool to make AI versions of my album covers…then things got weird. ✅ Browse my back catalogue here please and ... Read more

Let’s talk ROBOTS // Tea & Empathy Ep 002

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

➡️ Let’s talk about my side project Obey Robots, answering your questions about how our album “One In A Thousand” was written and telling the story of the band name ... Read more

Why being yourself is ALWAYS the best choice! Du Blonde x Penfriend // Creative Spaces 003

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Welcome to episode 3 of my Creative Spaces series. Strap in for some big laughs, and bear in mind…there’s swearing. We talk about Beth’s essentials for recording albums from home, ... Read more

UNBELIEVABLE. Solidarity with Billy Nomates / Tor Maries // Tea & Empathy Ep 001

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness

AKA how not everything is for you, and how music criticism is different from bullying. I share a few thoughts on the barrage of abuse Tor aka Billy Nomates received ... Read more

How selfies fixed my self confidence (gear + how & why to)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

➡️ Not every person you see on the internet is super confident – I’m certainly not! A few years ago I decided I wanted to make a change, and taking ... Read more

I waited TEN YEARS for this!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

➡️ I’ve been livestreaming solo music performances for 10 years, using lots of different setups. Some worked well, some were a nightmare. It’s hard to focus on your performance and ... Read more

How to use a loop pedal. Vocal performance of “Olympian” (Boss RC-30 via Gigcaster 8)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

➡️ This performance was live-streamed on Saturday 10th June 2023 as a test of the Boss Gigcaster 8 – huge thanks to Roland/Boss for the gift!➡️ This song appears on ... Read more

Storms don’t last forever…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

My first Penfriend album “Exotic Monsters” just turned TWO YEARS OLD forcryingoutloud, so I’m celebrating with some vinyl bargains and limited edition rarities INCLUDING this never-before-publicly-shared reworking of three album tracks ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 011 – 16/5/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

This home recording essential might surprise you…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

Welcome to episode 2 of my Creative Spaces series! I met Ryan Hamilton online recently after his album release plan went very wrong…and I thought to balance out the industry ... Read more

“I’m never trying to make someone like me”…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

So, how do you get a completely independently made, released and marketed album into the Official UK Top 20? I could keep it all to myself, but that’s not very ... Read more

Do something different.

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness

In September 2021 I was burned out and feeling super sad – so I decided I had to do something completely different. A one-off surf lesson led to my first ... Read more

You NEED an email list (or need to join one!)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

I’ve never understood why artists shy away from setting up an email list. Musicians, photographers, visual artists, writers – if you’re serious about sharing your work online, it’s WAY more ... Read more

What now?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process

My new album is OUT NOW – so I thought it was time for a chat about what happens in the weeks after a big success at work, plus what’s ... Read more

Cat Cobain!!!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News

I went to Rough Trade Nottingham in search of our Obey Robots album and found this instead! Art by Niaski. With hat tips to ace records by Sleaford Mods, Public ... Read more

We did it! Our #1 Independent Chart Album “One In A Thousand”

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Obey Robots is a creative collaboration between myself – Laura Kidd (Penfriend / She Makes War) – and Rat (Ned’s Atomic Dustbin). Our album “One In A Thousand” was released ... Read more

“One In A Thousand” Running Punks Review!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

“Albert Camus believed that the individual could change society.Kafka believed that society was too strong for that. The problem is, Kafka never listened to Obey Robots.” This is the absolute ... Read more

If that’s the price of being honest on the internet…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

Read on to find out why we have a few more copies of “One In A Thousand” available on vinyl now – including 20 copies of the “clear with black ... Read more

WATCH: UK Album Chart Position Reveal!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Watch me and Rat learn about the chart success of our collaborative album “One In A Thousand” – a HUGE win for independent artists and independently-minded music fans everywhere! THANK ... Read more

Look what YOU did! (chart results inside)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

Look what you did! Rat and I made an album we love, and we shared it with you. This is what people power looks like: Rat says: “thank YOU, for the support ... Read more

First “band” interview with Diamond Dave!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Rat and I talked to the very lovely Diamond Dave from TotalRock about how the pandemic affected the emotional core of our album “One In A Thousand”, as well as ... Read more

Charts Schmarts! But…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

It’s been a very exciting week here at Penfriend HQ! The headline: it’s the last day to cast your vote for independent music waving merrily at the mainstream, by picking up your ... Read more

YOU did this! Midweek chart reveal…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

WHAT THE HECK?!!! Let’s just look at this for a moment: This is the sort of dream I never thought could come true. As a completely independent artist, producing music ... Read more

Stars and spangles: “Elephant”: the video

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Releases Singles

“Elephant” by Obey Robots features on our album “One In A Thousand”, out 24th February 2023 and available here. Someone said the thumbnail of this video makes me look like ... Read more

What’s happening in my life?!!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News

Wednesday 15th February. Rat’s monster riff is unmistakable – but I can’t understand how it’s coming out of the kitchen stereo. I walk back inside the house, my puppy Luna ... Read more

Album release week events

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

“One In A Thousand” is out TOMORROW – get your copy here and help us smash into the UK Top 20…can we do it?!!! We’re going to have some fun ... Read more

Creative Spaces: home studio tour with Rat from Ned’s Atomic Dustbin / Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

Finding space to be creative – whether that’s a physical space, a time of day or just a mindset – is so powerful. In the first of a new video ... Read more

Making music, telling stories and doing it yourself

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

Huge thanks Cassie Fox from LOUD WOMEN for inviting me onto Louder Than War radio to talk about the new Obey Robots record, my thoughts on DIY music and the ... Read more

The only album review I’ll ever need

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

I wrote recently that the only reviews I care about are from music fans…and opting out of all pay-to-maybe-be-played PR and radio shenanigans means that anything that does come in ... Read more

“Elephant” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

Taut and propulsive, “Elephant” marries the pop nouse of XTC with the stop-start dynamics of 00’s post-hardcore mainstays Hundred Reasons before opening up into the kind of shimmering chorus that ... Read more

Look what we made! Obey Robots unboxing video + Top 20 WTF?

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

It’s been an exciting few days in album release land. Packages of colourful merch have been arriving, books, CDs and guitar and bass picks have been signed with metallic Sharpie, and on Tuesday ... Read more

Wikipedia helps me write a SPIKY song!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

Hang out with me as I write the verse lyrics for the Obey Robots song “Porcupine” with a little help from my faithful friend Wikipedia! A little bit of research ... Read more

Yes, we made these costumes ourselves…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Releases Singles

“Porcupine” by Obey Robots features on our album “One In A Thousand”, out 24th February 2023 and available here. The only reviews I care about are from music fans…here are ... Read more

The story of the record the shops didn’t want.

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

The story of the record the shops didn’t want. On Wednesday I received the news from my distributor that they only need 150 copies of my new album “One In ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 010 – 7/2/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

500 sales from the UK Top 40 – can we do it AGAIN?!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Process

I’ve got a question for you: can we do it again? In 2021 you put my first Penfriend album “Exotic Monsters” into the Official UK Albums Chart at number 24. ... Read more

Why releasing new music is scary…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Process

It’s scary releasing new music: sharing emotions, thoughts, riffs and melodies, baring your soul and sticking your neck out…but ALSO putting your money where your mouth is. Releasing an album ... Read more

This job is SO WEIRD!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

Some thoughts about how SUPER WEIRD my job is, how grateful I am to do it full-time, how BLOODY EXPENSIVE it is to make records, and what it’s really like ... Read more

I’d rather be one in a thousand

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Are you trying to be one in a million? I grew up with that phrase knocking around in my brain, instructing me to try and be so brilliant, so very ... Read more

With 4 weeks to go…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

It’s official: 2023 is the Year of the Robot. You heard it here first! My Obey Robots collaboration album “One In A Thousand” will be released into the world in four ... Read more

Why I shot a music video using Quicktime player and made it look like a Zoom call…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Releases Singles

Originally released in December 2020, “Let It Snow” wasn’t just the first Obey Robots single, it was the first song we completed (in December 2020!). It was a test: -> ... Read more

Taking small steps

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process

Comics class has been cancelled due to lack of interest, and my Zoom H6 Handy recorder won’t turn on. I managed to wipe the battery compartment clear of crusty white ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 009 – Winter 2022

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

A fresh direction for 2023

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Music News

A snoozy day, punctuated by washing piles of soft furnishings and spraying the entire house with Indorex. Surprise baths for reluctant pooches. Flea and worming tablets doled out a few ... Read more

Free music for you, to end 22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

As we approach the end of a particularly tough year, I’ve decided to collate all my free / pay what you want/can releases in one place, so you can fill ... Read more

“Super Connected” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

A song about the cognitive dissonance of feeling “super connected”: supposedly informed and part of a community via social media, yet deluded if we think typing words into a little ... Read more

“And Peace” – (2019)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases

When I decided to bring my She Makes War project to a close at the end of 2019, I created this eight-track retrospective featuring fan favourites from all four She ... Read more

I face my pretty tragedies… “Exit Strategy” live from Lightship95 (2011)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Exit Strategy” performed live on the Lightship95 music studio boat on the River Thames, November 2011. This song originally appeared on my 2012 album “Little Battles”, released under the name ... Read more

“Disarm:15” – (2015)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases

I released my debut album “Disarm” under the name She Makes War in September 2010. I’d been collecting the songs together for a couple of years, gradually focusing my mind, ... Read more

Please don’t leave me yet… – “Please Don’t” Live from the Archive (2015)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Please Don’t” performed live on vocals, guitar and violin at Ort Cafe, Birmingham, 24th March 2015. This song appears on my 2016 album “Direction Of Travel”, released under the name ... Read more

I’d like to delete myself… – “Delete” Live from the Archive (2015)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Delete” performed live on vocals, loop pedal and megaphone at Ort Cafe, Birmingham, 24th March 2015. This song appears on my 2012 album “Little Battles”, released under the name She ... Read more

Is Twitter DEAD?! 108,142 tweets…now what?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News

I joined Twitter on 23rd November 2007 and am looking at losing touch with nearly 15,000 followers if the platform crumbles under the leadership of Elon Musk, or if I ... Read more

“Not The Quiet Type” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

“Featuring the iconic guitar sound of Rat (Ned’s Atomic Dustbin) and the compassionate melodic arrangements of Laura Kidd (Penfriend / She Makes War), “Not The Quiet Type” implores the listener ... Read more

How to keep going.

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Productivity

Three steps to not quitting… Join my mailing list for free songs and stories, subscribe here for future videos and get involved from the start of Penfriend album #2 by ... Read more

Limited live album release + “Devastate Me”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances Music News

I performed nine songs live on the internet on Wednesday 26th October 2022, and am making the studio quality recordings available for a short time only. The theme of the ... Read more

If “Anti-Hero” by Taylor Swift was indie rock…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances

Introducing a very special guest backing vocalist! Join my mailing list for free songs and stories, subscribe here for future videos and get involved from the start of Penfriend album ... Read more

Lead me with your lovely lies – “Butterflies” live from Lightship95 (2011)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Butterflies” performed live on the Lightship95 music studio boat on the River Thames, November 2011. This song appears on my 2012 album “Little Battles”, released under the name She Makes ... Read more

Two new Penfriend tees (and SIX TYPEWRITERS)!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances

These will be sent out week beginning Monday 24th October – get yours here. Join my mailing list for free songs and stories, subscribe here for future videos and get ... Read more

“Brace For Impact” – (2018)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases

From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. “Brace For Impact” was the final full-length ... Read more

FREE online gig 26/10/22 – “Sad songs to make you feel better”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances Music News

The theme for my next FREE online gig is “sad songs to make you feel better”. It’s all a lot at the moment, isn’t it?!! – and I’ve always found ... Read more

“Roman Candles” – Death Cab For Cutie (cover)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances

When I heard this song earlier this year I was so transfixed I had to play it over and over and over (and over) again…that doesn’t happen often to me ... Read more

Digging ourselves a hole… – “A-Hole” Live from the Archive (2015)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“A-Hole” performed live at Ort Cafe, Birmingham, 24th March 2015. This song originally appeared on my 2010 album “Disarm”, released under the name She Makes War. Bass by Simon Goff, ... Read more

Pre-order the Obey Robots album today!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News

The day is finally here! I’m delighted to invite you to browse the Obey Robots “One In A Thousand” pre-order extravaganza for limited edition coloured vinyl, CDs, cassettes, hardback books, guitar pick tins, ... Read more

Illuminate my arrow. “In This Boat” live from Lightship95 (2011)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“In This Boat” performed live on the Lightship95 music studio boat on the River Thames, November 2011. This song appears on my 2012 album “Little Battles”, released under the name ... Read more

I quit social media for 30 days and slept better for a WHOLE YEAR

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox

In June 2021 I quit social media for 30 days…and it helped me sleep better for a whole year. When I released my album “Exotic Monsters” in May 2021 I ... Read more

With three little words you lied… – “Scared To Capsize” Live from the Archive (2015)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Scared To Capsize” performed live on ukulele, vocals and loop pedal at Ort Cafe, Birmingham, 24th March 2015. This song originally appeared on my 2010 album “Disarm”, released under the ... Read more

Obey Robots album countdown starts here

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

Sign up here to receive exclusive early access to the Obey Robots album pre-order on October 4th and also be the first to hear the new music (existing mailing list ... Read more

“Direction Of Travel” – (2016)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. My third album “Direction Of Travel” was ... Read more

My new favourite earphones

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

As I reach the end of the mixing process for my upcoming Obey Robots album, I compare the Flare Audio E-Prototype earphones with my trusty Shure SE21 and Beyerdynamic DT770 ... Read more

Stranger. Lover. “Minefields” live from Lightship95 (2011)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Minefields” performed live on the Lightship95 music studio boat on the River Thames, November 2011. This song appears on my 2012 album “Little Battles”, released under the name She Makes ... Read more

This is your invitation

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Process

This is your invitation to directly support the creation of new music.To join a genuinely supportive online community, to receive thoughtful, lovingly made limited edition art and music bundles, to ... Read more

Making my first music video – 2009 VLOG

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Process

An historical vlog from February 2009. See clips of “snow day” in London and enjoy my very first music video! “Eye Spy” is a straight-up anti-war song, and listening to ... Read more

Two new tees: typewriters and exotic monsters…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

I’m very pleased to share two brand new Penfriend t-shirt designs, available now! These are extra special, because they were designed by my clever sister Julia. Hooray! Have a browse ... Read more

Why I went to Lisbon and didn’t post about it on social media

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Mindfulness

In October 2021 I embarked on a solo trip to Lisbon. After retreating into my home – first during a series of lockdowns between March 2020 and January 2021 and ... Read more

I’m in the wars… – “Paper Thin” Live from the Archive (2015)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

“Paper Thin” performed live on ukulele, vocals, loop pedal and violin at Ort Cafe, Birmingham, 24th March 2015. This song appears on my 2016 album “Direction Of Travel” released under ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 008 – 24/8/22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

We need you.

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox

I’m celebrating three years of making my music full-time – and the past 12 months has been the most financially stressful in my 18 years of self employment. It’s tough ... Read more

How I made an album in 17 days

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox

In the winter of 2009 I spent 17 days making my debut album “Disarm” in a small Hackney music studio. When I released the album in 2010 I created a ... Read more

I WAS DOXXED: What to do when online criticism goes too far

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process

I’d been planning to make a video about how to deal with cruel comments on the internet – and then I got doxxed on Twitter. Doxxing is when someone publishes ... Read more

Guitar amp in a placky bag: my ancient VLOG 2008

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

Back to 2008 again for episode 2 of my ancient vlog, featuring: – my great big pre-gig nerves– a guitar amp transported to my gig in a plastic bag on ... Read more

I’m out. Leaving Bristol after 10 years…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process

It’s time for a new adventure: I talk about why I’m leaving Bristol after 10 years of making music here, reveal the terrible mistake I made four months ago, and ... Read more

Red hair and attitude – “A-Hole” Live from the Archive (2008)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Live performances

🎶 “Disarm” and my second album “Little Battles” are available on limited edition coloured vinyl – for the first time EVER – plus CD/download from my shop. 🎶 Browse my ... Read more

“I Need My Girl” – The National (cover)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

Who better to tackle for my sad song challenge than The National? This is the second in a regular segment called “Take a sad song and make it sadder” – ... Read more

Sailor stripes and vocal loops – “Olympian” Live from the Archive (2012)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Live performances

Another previously unseen video from my sprawling archive, this live and loopy performance of “Olympian” was recorded in my first dedicated home studio space in South London in 2012. My ... Read more

Thank you (yes, YOU) x

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness

I’ve been handling some really neggy comments recently, and I’m exhausted. After a long day of batting away the words of nasty strangers and thinking about where I’d prefer to ... Read more

Live from the Archive – “Let This Be” and “Slow Puncture” from 2010

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Live performances

In June 2010, three months before the release of my debut She Makes War album “Disarm”, I was invited onto The Painter’s Radio Show for a chat and to play ... Read more

Moog Grandmother FAIL – why does this synth hate me?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

I spent one of the hottest afternoons known to humanity trying to get one decent sound out of my Moog Grandmother. You’ll never guess what happened next… Join me – ... Read more

“Exotic Monsters” Live from The Launchpad

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Live performances

On 29th June 2022 I beamed an online gig from my home studio The Launchpad into the homes of lovely music fans all around the world, celebrating one year of ... Read more

“Free In The Knowledge” – The Smile (cover)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

I was a bit late to the party listening to The Smile, despite being a HUGE Radiohead fan, so I only heard their glorious debut album “A Light For Attracting ... Read more

“Seashaken” by the sea

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Releases

In April 2022 I spent a week in the Setubal area of Portugal, travelling up to my beloved Lisbon for several day trips. One breakfast time, after reading about the ... Read more

My HIGH QUALITY music live stream setup for YouTube

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

I’ve been livestreaming my gigs on the internet since 2013, and I’m not stopping now! This video is for anyone who wants to improve the quality of their livestreams by ... Read more

My Video Gear – 2022

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

People often ask me what gear I use to make my videos, so I’ll keep this post up to date to save us time! Thanks for asking – but please ... Read more

Be more Kate Bush

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

Kate Bush’s 1985 song “Running Up That Hill” is top of the UK singles chart for the second week in a row, 37 years after release! After appearing as Max’s ... Read more

Experience “Exotic Monsters” Live!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Let’s celebrate! It’s one year since my debut Penfriend album landed at #5 in the Independent Albums Chart and #24 in the Official UK Albums Chart, and got me a ... Read more

A week in my life as an independent artist VLOG

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness

I wanted to share an average week in my life as an independent artist BUT it went slightly off track because I got a new puppy!! I still got a ... Read more

Plans change…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness

…meet Luna the 8-week old Cavapoo puppy from Wales who’s taken over my life. I love her. Tim loves her. Albydog loves her and guards her while she’s sleeping. My ... Read more

For anyone feeling overwhelmed…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness

I made this video to help. I’ve been feeling completely overwhelmed lately, and I know I’m not the only one. World events can make it feel like our “first world ... Read more

It’s one year since THIS happened…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

My first album under the name Penfriend (and my fifth solo album), “Exotic Monsters” marked the start of a new musical chapter. Written, produced and recorded in my home studio ... Read more

“Little Battles” mini gig experience

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox

My second She Makes War album “Little Battles” just turned 10, so I celebrated with an online gig on 27th April 2022, welcoming you into the new Launchpad for the ... Read more

“Black Car” on Welcome To Night Vale!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

I’m somewhat stunned and very excited to announce my song “Black Car” is The Weather on episode 208 of the Welcome To Night Vale podcast, “Cecil in The Big City”. ... Read more

Make that thing! How I write songs and why I stay independent

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness

Answering your questions on how I make things work as an independent musician, music producer and YouTuber in 2022, how I write lyrics, who I’d like to cover my songs ... Read more

Solitude isn’t selfish

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness

Solitude is good for you – some would say it’s essential. I’ve been craving time alone lately, but got into the habit of spending all my days in the house ... Read more

Watch my latest livestream whenever you like!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News News

Last Wednesday I invited friendly music lovers into the new Launchpad to celebrate the 10th birthday of my second album “Little Battles”. Hooray! Watch whenever you like: Set list: MinefieldsExit ... Read more

I’m singing on Miles Hunt’s new song “Things Can Change”

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process

+ Listen to ”Things Can Change” here on Bandcamp. + Watch the “Things Can Change” video here. In January 2022, one of my musical heroes invited me to contribute vocals ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 007 – 25/4/22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

Ukulele or cavaquinho? Adventures in Portugal

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity

I started playing the ukulele in 2008 after reading about George Harrison’s great love for the instrument, and have written many sad songs on it since. On a recent trip ... Read more

“Little Battles” – (2012)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. “Little Battles” is available on vinyl for ... Read more

“Paper Thin” – live one take performance

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity

On 23rd February 2022 I played an atmospheric acoustic online gig on my Luna Dolphin ukulele and Boss RC30 loop pedal. This song was released on my third album under ... Read more

Reading this could have made me give up on my music career…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity

If you battle your inner critic on a regular basis – this one’s for you. I received a standout email recently from a subscriber, and it was surprisingly freeing! Receive ... Read more

“Disarm” – my 2010 debut album

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. My debut album “Disarm” was recorded and ... Read more

Can I be honest with you?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity

I was delighted to be invited onto one of my favourite podcasts recently – The James McMahon Music Podcast. It was nerve-wracking being on the other side of questions for ... Read more

Why I’m leaving The Launchpad

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity

Hands up if you find working from home with your loved ones a *little bit* tough! Two full years of sharing a wall with my darling husband has come to ... Read more

Vocal loops and ukulele mini gig for you!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

On 23rd February 2022 I played an atmospheric acoustic online gig on my Luna Dolphin ukulele and Boss RC30 loop pedal. I’ve chosen three songs to share in this mini ... Read more

“Little Battles” + “Disarm” reissues + first-time on vinyl!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

It’s astonishing to me that this April 9th marks the tenth anniversary of the release of my second album “Little Battles”. It is, however, true – so I’m celebrating with some beautiful ... Read more

The magic of live music, and being truly yourself

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

I’ve been performing in rooms full of other humans since I was 7 years old, and touring since the age of 19. In this video I talk about how learning ... Read more

FREE online gig Wed 23rd Feb

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

She Makes War to Penfriend: join me for a deep dive into my back catalogue beaming live from my home studio The Launchpad into your home (or wherever you happen ... Read more

The life-changing power of showing up

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

Showing up – again, and again and again – is the simple but surprisingly effective reason I am currently finishing off my sixth album, working from my home studio The ... Read more

Gear and riff walkthrough with Rat from Ned’s Atomic Dustbin – Captain’s Vlog #3

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

For the first time in 30 years of music making, Rat from Ned’s Atomic Dustbin shares exactly what gear he uses, from Gibson guitars to the Mesa Dual Rectifier amp ... Read more

Watch my 3-song mini gig!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

I have a mini gig for you – a giglet, if you will! Watch highlights from my 15th December 2021 online gig: two Penfriend songs “Black Car” and “Seashaken”, and ... Read more

5 ways I’m failing…and why that’s okay

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Productivity

I’m doing my best – but I’m failing in several areas of my life at the moment! I made this video to talk about why that’s okay, and why I’ll ... Read more

Is it worth all this? 2022 plans + watch hours reveal

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

I share my music plans for 2022 – Obey Robots, She Makes War *and* Penfriend, oh my! – raise the question of live gigs plus discuss why on earth this ... Read more

7 down? Recording bass guitar for my new album at home – Captain’s Vlog 02

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

This month, I’m making an album with Rat from Ned’s Atomic Dustbin under the name OBEY ROBOTS and sharing the process in my Captain’s Vlog ⚓ I have 19 days ... Read more

How I record cover songs – “This Is The Sound”

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

In my twenties, I spent a few years running a covers band called Co-Star. Great name, right? Good work, Gareth the guitarist. I booked the shows, played bass and sang. ... Read more

HONEST (messy!) studio tour + recording an album in 19 days. Captain’s Vlog 01

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

I’m recording an album! In 2019, my friend Miles Hunt from The Wonder Stuff put me in touch with Rat from Ned’s Atomic Dustbin, and our collaboration project OBEY ROBOTS ... Read more

Resolutions don’t work. This does…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process Productivity

The 17th January is “Forget New Year’s Resolutions Day”. Did you know that? I believe everyone has the power to tweak and improve their lives, but there’s a far better ... Read more

Casey Neistat made me do THIS

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

I started making videos again this year after discovering Casey Neistat’s vlogs 6 years late! Here are the three big things I’ve learned from his videos, why I think filmmaking ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 005 + 006 – 21/12/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

Don’t read the comments.

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process

Good advice, or just a pile of rubbish? Scroll down for the video transcript, and subscribe to my channel for more! THANK YOU for visiting my website! I’m Laura Kidd, a ... Read more

Online Gig 15/12/21 – watch / download

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

I played my first gig in a very long time on 15th December 2021, and it’s available for you to enjoy on YouTube whenever you like! I performed songs from ... Read more

What is a podcast? Where to find them and how to listen for FREE

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Process

I’ve been making a podcast for two years, and have been harbouring a funny feeling that not everyone knows what a podcast is, how to find them and how to ... Read more

50 conversations on creativity, grit and determination

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast

Here’s a full list of every episode of my podcast Attention Engineer 2020-2021 with direct links to listen onsite or via YouTube. “Attention Engineer” can be found on your favourite ... Read more

EU VAT woes? Bandcamp musicians, you’re (probably) doing it wrong…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

…but it’s not your fault, and I’m here to help. TAX DOESN’T HAVE TO BE TAXING (apparently…)! [Last edited 15/10/21 after input from kind tweeters – I feel this may ... Read more

My burnout recovery tips – completing the stress cycle

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

I’ve been dealing with burnout for a few years on and off, and learning about completing the stress cycle recently has really helped me. In this video I talk about ... Read more

Making more time for creativity | Getting up at 6am for a week

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

I decided to challenge myself to get up at 6am every day for a week – and it changed my life! Join me for a week in my life as ... Read more

I only did it for him | Garden cleanup time-lapse

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

Join me as I clear my overgrown back garden so my elderly dog Mister Benji can use it, PLUS enjoy oddly satisfying timelapses! Accidental passionfruit! Gnomes lost in the undergrowth! ... Read more

BUT is it any good? How to assess your own creative work

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

It can be really hard to make stuff – but once you’ve got started, how can you assess your own creative work? Is it any good? We all want to ... Read more

How I get stuff done! | 5 steps to achieve any goal

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

Consistency is the habit that separates people who say “I wish I could…” from those who actually get on with it and put in the work. It’s not glamorous and ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 004 – 4/8/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

How to stop your inner critic from holding you back

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

Your inner critic is the annoying voice inside your head that whispers mean things to you. It’s holding you back from trying new things, putting yourself out there and living ... Read more

“Why I’m still not playing gigs in 2021” [VIDEO]

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

As an independent songwriter, producer and musician, releasing my new album this year was more of a challenge than usual. The UK government left venues with no choice but to ... Read more

Penfriend in the charts…look what we did!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox

Look what you did! THANK YOU. This is a childhood dream come true…and I couldn’t have done it without the support of music fans. WHATTTTTTTTTTT! There’s way too much smoke ... Read more

I’ll Start A Fire (18/5/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

I'll Start A Fire (single) by Penfriend Release date: 18th May 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get ... Read more

Music Week says my new album is “essential”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Imagine this indie upstart’s surprise and delight on the weekend when a friend sent me this photo*. Yes, that’s my artist name sitting pretty right near Billie Eilish’s face, with ... Read more

Behind The Song: Seventeen

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast Process

Get the song. This bonus musical mini episode of “Attention Engineer” is also available on your favourite podcast platform. THANK YOU for visiting my website! + Get FREE music immediately ... Read more

Behind The Song: Black Car

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast Process

Watch the music video and get the song. This bonus musical mini episode of “Attention Engineer” is also available on your favourite podcast platform. THANK YOU for visiting my website! ... Read more

Never fear, I’m still punk as fuck

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

All this talk of the album charts recently might have made you think I’m selling out. I’ve spent my music career as the underdog with a punk spirit, sneered at ... Read more

Can we make Bristol music history together?!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

This is unbelievable! I have massive news to share with you today: my new album “Exotic Monsters” is two thirds of the way towards getting in the UK Top 40 ... Read more

Seventeen (23/4/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

Seventeen (single) by Penfriend Release date: 23rd April 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get three album tracks ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 003 – 21/4/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

Obey Robots – “Inside Out” (2/4/20)

by Laura Kidd Homepage Feature Letterbox Releases Singles

Release date: 2nd April 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings Let It Snow by Obey Robots GET THE SONG + Get the song on pay what you want / can download ... Read more

Halfway to the UK Top 40!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

Black Car (“Exotic Monsters”)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

To my great delight and excitement, this song is featured as “The Weather” on “Cecil in The Big City”, Episode 208 of the Welcome To Night Vale podcast, 15th May ... Read more

Behind The Song: Cancel Your Hopes

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast Process

Behind The Song: Exotic Monsters

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast Process

Watch the pop video and get the song. This bonus musical mini episode of “Attention Engineer” is also available on your favourite podcast platform. THANK YOU for visiting my website! ... Read more

New Penfriend live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Last Friday’s Correspondent’s Club livestream turned out so nicely I’m sharing the posh recordings with you for one week only! I played seven songs and had a nice chat with ... Read more

Cancel Your Hopes (5/3/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

Cancel Your Hopes (single) by Penfriend Release date: 5th March 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get “Cancel ... Read more

Why I won’t be playing in-person gigs in 2021

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Music News Process

For everyone who’s been asking me whether I’m going to be touring in 2021 – here are my thoughts on the matter. We’re all missing live concerts, artists are floundering ... Read more

My song is in a film!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process

Most songwriters dream of one day having their song in a film soundtrack, and I’m fizzing with delight that “Dear Heart” appears in 21st century rom-com Modern Persuasion, directed by Alex ... Read more

Power to the people

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process

At the end of last week, I was invited to write a piece sharing an artist’s perspective on a harsh new scheme to charge musicians to perform their own work ... Read more

Exotic Monsters (22/1/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles

Exotic Monsters (single) by Penfriend Release date: 22nd January 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get “Exotic Monsters” ... Read more

2020 was my best year for reading – my recommendations

by Laura Kidd Homepage Feature Letterbox Process

I’m still gathering my thoughts on what 2020 meant to me. I really enjoy reading peoples’ end of year blog posts and have started mine a few times, from a ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 002 – 15/12/20

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

Obey Robots – “Let It Snow” (4/12/20)

by Laura Kidd Homepage Feature Letterbox Releases Singles

Release date: 4th December 2020Label: My Big Sister Recordings Let It Snow by Obey Robots GET THE SONG + Pre-order vinyl / pay what you want/can download from Bandcamp. ABOUT ... Read more

Behind The Song: The Only Way Out Is Through

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast Process

FREE DOWNLOAD – Attention Engineer S01 Nuggets available now

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast

Something different from me this Bandcamp Friday – a present for you from the first series of my creativity podcast Attention Engineer. Sixteen quotes from brilliant artists to provoke, inspire ... Read more

I’ve been finding everything really hard lately

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Productivity

Friends, I’ve been finding everything really hard lately. I have a lot to feel fortunate for – not least the ongoing generosity and support of my Correspondents, THANK YOU! – ... Read more

The Only Way Out Is Through (8/9/20)

by Laura Kidd Homepage Feature Letterbox Releases Singles

The Only Way Out Is Through by Penfriend Release date: 8th September 2020Label: My Big Sister RecordingsDistributor: Southern Record Distributors GET THE SONG + Download PWYW from Bandcamp.+ Get all ... Read more

Correspondent’s Club 001 – 21/8/20

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC

This is a restricted post. Click here to find out about The Correspondent's Club membership options.

New Penfriend TV live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Surprise PWYW live album for youuuuuuuuuu! On Friday 31st July I played my third Correspondent’s Club livestream, including a brand new song called “Seventeen”, and I am making some live ... Read more

Chasing the mountain

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Mindfulness Productivity

Sometimes I wonder why I spend my time in the ways I do. A life’s primary occupation builds up through an infinitesimal series of decisions – what we wanted to ... Read more

Attention Engineer glowingly reviewed in The Observer!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast

“An interview series from musician Laura Kidd. Kidd talks with insight and warmth to (mostly) other musicians. Her opening show is with Belly’s Tanya Donelly, and is completely delicious; her ... Read more

Inspiration is for amateurs

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

The thing that’s got me through the ups and downs, the fear, the uncertainty, the confusion, the anger, the frustration and the sheer bizarreness of 2020 is the daily routine ... Read more

Surprise live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

Surprise live album for youuuuuuuuuu! Get your hands on 8 songs (7 unreleased) plus some fun chat, available on a pay what you want basis* for one week only. Penfriend ... Read more

Album update: how not to get overwhelmed by big projects and the danger of endless lists

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Process Productivity

“Old Tape” image by Ozant Liuky from Pixabay Suddenly, I find myself with only a little bit of an album to complete.You might know I started writing this new collection of songs in ... Read more

You are not a number (and neither am I)

by Laura Kidd Homepage Feature Letterbox Mindfulness Minimalism Process Productivity

NEWS THIS WEEK“Attention Engineer” episode 4 is available now, featuring my conversation with songwriter Frank Turner! Recorded on the precipice of the UK lockdown backstage at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Frank ... Read more

I wasn’t going to write this til I realised silence was worse

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness

I am not a celebrity or a pundit (thank GOODNESS), or someone who thinks their “hot take” on every topic needs to be shared on all platforms. I’m on a ... Read more

So, why a podcast?

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast

I’ve been on quite a journey over the past couple of years, exploring my relationship with social media. The internet has undoubtedly helped me find my people, but I needed ... Read more

Beware Of Darkness, online gig this Sat + why I’m launching a podcast

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Music News Podcast Process

Art by @grandfunkrev This morning I got up early to do yoga in the living room before walking the dogs round the block in the blazing sunshine. On returning home ... Read more

“Attention Engineer” – trailer online now!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Podcast

Announcing the launch of my weekly podcast series “Attention Engineer”! The trailer is done done done, and submitting it for inclusion in all the big podcast directories this afternoon was ... Read more

My lockdown anthem of hope is out today

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

GET THE SONG + Get “Everything Looks Normal In The Sunshine” plus unreleased track “The Only Way Out Is Through” FREE when you join The Correspondent’s Club.+ Download PWYW from ... Read more

Everything Looks Normal In The Sunshine (15/5/20)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Releases Singles

Release date: 15th May 2020Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Get all Penfriend singles PLUS unreleased track “Cancel Your Hopes” FREE when you join The Correspondent’s Club.+ ... Read more

Four Penfriend songs live on the internet – watch again links

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News

25/3/20 – Stay At Home Fest with Robin Ince, Josie Long, Jo Brand and Luke WrightStarts 44:39 – I played “Out Of The Blue” + “Everything Looks Normal In The ... Read more

Let me tell you a story…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Process

When I was a little girl, one of my favourite possessions was a shoebox that I filled up with bits of paper, envelopes and leaflets gathered from wherever I could ... Read more

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