q&a: tessa and the typecast
Describe your sound in five words or less.
Evolving, expressive, exciting, edible, elastic…
Was there a particular moment or artist that made you want to pursue music when you were growing up? Who were your early influences?
There were always records blaring at home while I was growing up. I listened to female artists like Rickie Lee Jones, Carly Simon, Maria Muldaur and was very quickly singing along. I can’t remember ever not being engrossed musically. I was fortunate to have passionate listeners as parents.
What are your other interests/passions?
All things creative, reading, film, photography. I think it is healthy to have other interests to fuel your love and creativity in music; it makes for more engaging writing and a more expansive mind.
Who do you most admire?
I am so lucky to have incredibly supportive and inspiring friends and family. I couldn’t single out one.
Greatest achievement to date?
The past year for our band has been my most proud achievement. We have worked so hard together to be in our current position of playing shows, recording and working with some incredible talents. Personally working with souls like Ricky Maymi and Leo Baker- who produced our upcoming EP and wrote/directed our video for ‘Painter’ respectively, are certainly highlights for me!
A song I wish I wrote/played is…
So, so many. ‘No Surprises’-Radiohead; ‘Old Man’-Neil Young; or ‘Happy Birthday’ for the accolade.
I couldn’t live without…
Sandwiches and Julien
The best advice I ever received was…
Worry about the “dream” not working out, later.
Do you think the music industry treats female musicians differently to male musicians? Do you think it’s more difficult for women to establish themselves?
I have to be careful how I answer this question! I think there are opportunities for either gender to consume. I think idolisation was originally more relative to male “rock stars”. There is certainly continual lingering of such worship, although music and creatives are no longer a minority. I would say there are more male musicians – but don’t believe either gender is more favoured. Music is music, and in the end, it should come down to quality and integrity.
Tessa and the Typecast launched their debut EP, Lemons, today! Check out the clip for first single, ‘Painter’, below or head to their Melbourne launch at the RAOB GAB Buffalo Club next Saturday, October 22!
