By José Gandue @Gandour
Is called Tani Wolff and we've talked about it on Zonagirante.com several times during the end of 2018. When listening to his album Mew We felt that, amidst the surprising innocence exhibited by the material, one could definitely sense something that we can rarely find in the records produced these days: Such honest naturalness that some might call it corny or banal. And that, on the contrary, we want to describe as genius and raw emotion. Mew, Her second album was made entirely in English, a sort of wish of the moment for the artist, which has brought minor dissatisfaction among some radical fans., But their happy growth in the Buenos Aires alternative pop scene is undeniable. Therefore, taking advantage of a short time she had before a presentation at an alternative venue in her city, we were able to talk to her and learn more about her present and, hopefully, her future:
What does your music sound like?
My music sounds like honest pop. Like being in a room dancing like nobody's watching.
How long have you been involved in the music scene?
I've always been studying, playing, and experimenting with music. But it was only four years ago that I started going to see bands, playing with other people (first as a drummer), and then releasing my first few songs. From then on, I immersed myself completely in this whole world, and whenever I can, I delve a little deeper.
What made you decide to go solo?
I always saw myself as a solo artist. Being in bands allowed me to start getting into music without so much pressure, little by little. But being a solo artist was always the ultimate goal. I feel like I manage better without depending on anyone. Even though I have a lot of people who help me, being on my own makes me feel more secure, because no matter what happens, I know I'll keep going. I don't know, I just feel more comfortable being a solo artist. On the other hand, I have a lot more songwriting freedom than I would in a band, where I'd be more limited.
What is your live presentation format like?
I perform live with a band. Right now, we're two keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. I'm also putting together a solo project where I play keyboards over backing tracks.
How has the public responded to your proposal?
From the beginning, it was incredibly good, especially when I released my first album. I had just started out and received a lot of support from other musicians and people who came to listen to my music. Suddenly, my homemade album was an underground hit. That surprised me a lot. Now, with the new album, it's the same. I was a little apprehensive about the change in language and sound, but luckily most people have taken it very well, and in general, they tell me they really liked it.
A question I imagine you've been asked quite a bit: Why sing in English?
Yes, it's something I get asked a lot, and sometimes they also tell me «"Your music is very nice! What a shame it's in English...", And yes, it was something I knew was going to happen, and I'm glad it did, because luckily there's so much more music in Spanish now, and there are more and more artists coming out, which is fantastic. Although I also prefer Spanish, I decided to record these songs in English because that's how I made them when I first wrote them. Basically, I prioritized authenticity and my desire to record these songs that mean so much to me, rather than worrying about what others might say. For me, that's another important aspect of my project: prioritizing what comes naturally to me above all else. That's why if songs come out in English, I let them come out and let them be. I think that's important. I'm proud of myself for that!
Would you like to overcome your underground artist status and become mainstream?
Yes, definitely. The other day I went to a really underground show and it made me realize all the things I've been through on this musical journey, all the things I've learned, and where I am now. I'd like to keep growing nonstop. Besides, going mainstream means having more resources and more fun! So, yes, I'll get there someday.
What's next in your career?
I'm thinking of releasing new singles at the beginning of the year and I also hope to make more music videos; I'd like to continue exploring that medium.
What are your musical influences?
Fiona Apple, Amanda Palmer, Björk, Juana Molina, ESG, lots of women in general. When people ask me what music I listen to, I never really remember! But those are my all-time favorites.
Is the future of music female?
It seems so! I think there are important changes coming to music that will come from letting us get a little more involved in all areas of the music industry.
