Flock of Dimes / Madeline Kenney The Sisters / Helpless

About

Jenn Wasner and Madeline Kenney met in 2018 to work on Kenney’s record Perfect Shapes. Having discovered in that recording session a host of creative and personal compatibilities, the two have teamed up to release two new songs together—”Helpless” and “The Sisters.” The split single, to be released on Carpark Records, is the result of a year spent both touring and living together as roommates resulting in a closely intertwining and overlapping set of experiences. Together as a whole the songs explore the attempt to make sense of life as an artist in an industry that values style over substance, particularly for women who refuse to have their artistry seen only through the filter of their own physicality.

Artist Bio

Madeline Kenney has always followed her creative instincts wherever they lead, crafting a musical career marked by constant evolution. Raised on piano and with a background spanning neuroscience, dance, visual arts, and baking, music ultimately became her primary artistic outlet. Since her 2017 debut Night Night at the First Landing, co-produced with Chaz Bear (Toro y Moi), Kenney has built a reputation for her intricate songwriting, layered production, and collaborations with artists like Jenn Wasner (Wye Oak, Flock of Dimes) and Kurt Wagner (Lambchop).

Her latest album, Kiss from the Balcony, is a testament to both personal and artistic growth. Created in collaboration with Ben Sloan and Stephen Patota, the record emerged from two week-long studio sessions in Oakland, where the trio transformed sketches and fragments into a fully realized album. Originally conceived as an EP, the project expanded as the chemistry between the three musicians brought unexpected depth to the songs. Sloan, with his background in experimental percussion and sound design, added an electronic texture to Kenney’s songwriting, while Patota’s guitar work provided a grounding warmth.

This record sees Kenney refining her exploration of love, power, and self-discovery. Songs like Slap and Scoop examine the complexities of identity and resilience, while They Go Wide reflects on both romantic and professional struggles. Though deeply introspective, Kiss from the Balcony embraces playfulness and hope, capturing the fearless curiosity that defines Kenney’s work.

Throughout her career, Kenney has maintained an adventurous approach to music, balancing meticulous craftsmanship with an openness to spontaneity. Whether directing music videos for artists like Hand Habits and Boy Scouts, collaborating on other musicians’ projects, or pushing the boundaries of her own sound, she continues to evolve, embracing each new phase with curiosity and conviction. With Kiss from the Balcony, she reaffirms her place as a singular voice in modern indie music—bold, thoughtful, and always willing to take risks.