Small Pockets’ self titled EP has officially dropped. Small Pockets is the indie pop project of Atlanta-based, Joey Kirby. This collection of songs captures the pockets of inspiration that Kirby experienced throughout a year and offers a glimmer of hope reminding us that we all start the day with literally & metaphorically small pockets. 

The first single was released in January of this year, titled Mavelene. This track is a tip of the hat to Kirby’s late grandmother. Kirby describes her as a warm-hearted-superhuman-undefeated-Tetris-champion. “Sick days at GMA’s are some of my fondest childhood memories. She always knew how to bring a smile to our faces. I wanted to kick off this project with a song dedicated to her as she always gave me courage and encouragement to create and share my music,” he reminisced.

In a year that brought much grief and change, Good Reason is a reflection of Kirby’s search to find community in a new place. Floating through social circles and dynamics through a transitional period of life inspired this introspective tune. From the desperation of throwing up craigslist ads to the joys of communing in a treehouse, you’ll get a taste of his sense of wordplay.  The upbeat tune offers a hopeful outlook on overcoming the fear of the unknown and diving head first into it. What you’ll find on the other side, will be worth the risk.

Heads or Tales is a whimsical, dreamy tune that will have your head in the clouds, with a slightly painful juxtaposition of lyrics longing for something or someone from the past. Kirby expressed this poignantly as, “That nostalgic feeling of having the occasional tea party with your favorite stuffed animals.” This song is recommended for fans of Bnny Rabbit, The Postal Service and Rogue Wave. 

Askews Me might be our favorite title on the album and potentially of the year. This energetic and youthful track is vulnerable, pure and playful. This tune lyrically touches on themes of self awareness and reflection, while confronting the aftermath of the mistakes made in the past. This tune is a reflection of the walls built, coming down when new love takes us by surprise.

We Don’t Talk Anymore may be the shortest tune on the self-titled EP, yet it is one of the most moving.  Kirby notes, “It is about the struggle to communicate and realizing the signs that it is time to move on.” The tone of this track speaks to a loss with reverence, yet clarity to move forward with one foot in front of the other.

Life does not slow and Kite will take you on a whimsical journey of the highs and lows that compliment the journey. Kirby self reflects on the things that bring him down in the ebbs and keeps him hopeful in the flows, like a kite combatting with a windy day.

This is a well rounded piece of work and a reflection of Kirby’s maturing as an artist. As a former member of bands in Ohio and Tennessee, this EP is the truest and most vulnerable expression of Kirby’s independent creative direction yet.

Listen to the Small Pockets EP on Spotify now.