WE ALL like a song we understand. But we all love song that seems to understand us.

The job of a songwriter will be, first and foremost, to get their own ideas down on paper. It can be a lonely exercise – introspective and tedious – but the task is all the more difficult when trying to make the material relatable.

Opening up to the world is always a daunting prospect. Getting thoughts down on paper in the first place is not much easier. Making sure people can understand the thoughts and emotions behind the song is just another huge obstacle to overcome.

And, so, when the first messages of support come in there is an outpouring of relief. When those testaments read: I've felt this way, too' then the whole arduous process is vindicated.

Inverness songwriter KAIT recently unveiled her debut EP titled FIVE. The songs showcase her sheer talent for writing in a variety of styles, but it is the palpable emotion running through the tracks that really capture the attention.

She unleashes her very soul and gifts listeners an insight into her personal experiences – many of which have proved to be shared among so many others.

The project really took off during lockdown, but the seeds were planted long before.

"FIVE was born out of a tough couple of years mixed with a pandemic," the singer tells The Weekender. "I just thought I can hide in my flat and make music, release it without eyes on me and do it at my own pace - an introvert's dream.

"Three of the songs were written before and a couple during, so it felt a nice mix. I've been wanting to release for ages now, and this felt like the perfect time to get my head down and do it."

The response was clear and immediate, but then her songs have long had that effect.

"Breathe cut deeper after the murder of Sarah Everard as everyone was coming together online and sharing their stories and anger; and that was mine."

Two tracks – Invisible and Breathe – are particularly hard-hitting as the singer reflects on the major issues she has faced in recent times.

She adds: "Invisible and Breathe were easy for me to write, but really hard to release.

"Invisible was the hardest and it was in and out of the EP so many times. It's pretty revealing and a scary snapshot into my head at that point in time.

"Breathe is definitely a song of defiance; I was in a very toxic environment for a few years, and this was the result of a build-up of emotion I didn't realise was in there.

"I'm glad they were released though, because I've had people reach out telling me how the songs sum up their feelings, which is really cool."

Writing the EP was therapeutic for KAIT as she strives to forge positive outcomes from inner turmoil. There is an overriding sense of defiance running through the five tracks, most notable in Flame, Charms and Invisible.

Working on FIVE has clearly helped her deal with her own frustrations and pain, but her songs will have also brought a great deal of comfort to others who have felt the same.

The singer, now based in Glasgow, adds: "I wrote them because I needed them at that point in my life, and writing is my therapy.

"Sharing the songs with close friends and family made me think 'what if other people need this too?' – especially Breathe and Flame. They're songs of defiance and give me that 'I'm a boss' or 'I'm in control' feeling, and I think we definitely need that vibe in our lives.

"Breathe cut deeper after the murder of Sarah Everard as everyone was coming together online and sharing their stories and anger; and that was mine.

"I recorded a stripped back version before the EP release, and it gained a lot of attention which is sad, because it's not surprising that it's relatable. So, that's been an amazing reaction for me.

"I guess I just want people to feel empowered by my songs, if that's a good old cry or a couple of air grabs."

She adds: "There's been such an amazing response. I've had a lot of love and it's crazy to see people relate to your vulnerability.

"It just proves we are all living the same life and go through the same sh*t."

LISTEN: KAIT – FIVE is available to stream online now.