She's been compared to Mick Jagger and Iggy Pop (we'd throw in a little Siouxsie Sioux) and her cabaret-punk band Celebration is having its moment, touring with the likes of Smashing Pumpkins and TV On the Radio. As the band tours to support its latest album, The Modern Tribe, we caught up with Katrina Ford.
Who is your favorite Baltimorean, living or dead?
David Byrne.
What are your thoughts on The Block?
Wow, cops and strippers. What a good combo.
How has Baltimore changed since you've lived here?
For all of the fully gentrified areas of Baltimore, it seems to have become more corporate. I see less family-run businesses and more corporate interest, which takes away a "local" feeling and charm. Cities across America are all starting to look alike. I guess humans like consistency.
When were you most tempted to leave Baltimore?
I'm still here. I will live in Baltimore as long as I can handle modern living. After that, it's off to the wild.
If you could write Baltimore's motto, what would it be?
"Baltimore, I believe you are on camera."
How would you describe performing live?
When I'm on stage, I feel a rush of energy. It starts as a unity within the warring of my insides, then that merges with the unity of us as a band. Once that feeling is right and strong, I feel a merging with the unity of the crowd. This doesn't happen always, but sometimes I feel that unity expanding past the confines of the physical location. Ideally, completely losing yourself to the moment is the key, to transcend the illusion of separateness at any level, micro to macro.
Best part and worst part of being married to a bandmate (guitarist/keyboardist Sean Antanaitis)?
It all seems best. He is my hero and to have a shared vision is a blessing.
How do Baltimore crowds compare to crowds, say, in New York?
People in Baltimore know how to let loose and enjoy themselves more than critique the moment.
What was it like opening for Smashing Pumpkins?
Weird and uncomfortable.
What's the strangest thing a fan has done to get your attention?
Two people have gotten tattoos of our first album's artwork. Whoa! It makes me feel funny.
How important is it for a band to have a strong Web presence these days?
I don't know. It's a given now. I think that question would have been relevant 5 years ago. Everyone is online now, even funeral homes for God's sake.
