Jessica Zambri is known for her eponymous project ZAMBRI, which she started over a decade ago with her sister, for her solo project SOLVEY, and currently as half of Indie Rock duo MASS GOTHIC, in which she shares vocal and songwriting duties with her husband. Their latest album, “I’ve tortured you long enough”, came out last summer on Sub Pop and it is full of beautiful melodies and eclectic sounds that will make you go through a wide variety of emotions. Make sure to give it a listen!
Name five songs that you consider “perfect songs” and explain why or what they mean to you.
Depeche Mode – Enjoy The Silence
This one’s chilly and confident. The musical progression never really settles, which makes me want to listen to it over and over.
Massive Attack – Unfinished Sympathy
Shara Nelson’s voice, the strings, the beat, the video, it’s all my favorite.
Kate Bush – This Woman’s Work
Such a gorgeous melody/composition. Straight to the heart.
Björk – Pluto
Big time song. One of the most heavy and enlightening songs I’ve ever heard.
Twin Shadow – Tyrant Destroyed
Noel got me into this one and I’m glad he did. The song has a warm intimacy like it’s being sung over the phone.
Which music genre do you listen to the most?
I’m not really loyal to any genres. My ears perk up for the song.
Your five favorite vocalists of all time?
- Nina Simone
- Björk
- Chris Cornell
- Karen Carpenter
- Prince
Do you remember the first time you really appreciated an album or a song?
I was about two or three years old and I heard MICHAEL JACKSON singing Beat it. This is my first memory of hearing music so I guess I lucked out!
What were you listening to in elementary school? then in high school?
I listened to lots of Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, The Cranberries, Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, and my older siblings introduced me to the 80’s music like U2, Michael Jackson, Prince, Tears For Fears, Depeche Mode. My brother was obsessed with The Beatles, so that too!
What beloved music do you share with your parents? Any specifics memories?
My Dad and Mom gave me a taste of WILLIE NELSON, NEIL DIAMOND, ELVIS, the soundtrack to the movie, Beaches was a road trip favorite. And, I probably got into classical vocal training early on because I was exposed to Opera. LUCIANO PAVAROTTI singing Nessun Dorma would blast out the car windows pretty often.
Most memorable show you’ve ever seen? What makes it stand out? JANET JACKSON at the Jones Beach Theatre in Long Island definitely blew my young mind away, especially when she cried during Again.
Is there any band that you’ve always wanted to see live but never had the chance to catch them? Any classic show that you wish you could have experienced?
Wish I could’ve seen some NIRVANA shows. But, I do feel lucky I got to see ELLIOTT SMITH. He was perfect at The Knitting Factory show in NYC.
Do you have any controversial/unpopular music related opinions that you would like to defend?
Enya will always be cool to me. I used to listen to her on the bus to school all those dark 6am- type mornings.
Which artists (2 or more), dead or alive, and from what era, would you dream to see collaborate?
I’ve always wondered why Bjork and Aphex Twin haven’t collaborated, but I also understand why they haven’t too. Sometimes it’s better to imagine some things.
What albums have been on heavy rotation lately?
Anything by SERPENTWITHFEET, really enjoying YVES TUMOR’s Safe In The Hands Of Love.
What are some up and coming artists that you would recommend?
I saw LOU TIDES randomly up in Hudson, NY at the Half Moon, one cold evening, and loved her show. Seen her perform in NYC too, and each time is a a little different, much appreciated.
Is there a band that you’ve discovered live recently that blew you away?
GAMELAN DHARMA SWARA never disappoints. First saw them open up for PLAID a few years back at Le Poisson Rouge in NYC, and try to see them as often as I can.
What are you listening to right now, while answering these questions? The subtle hum in my studio.
Is there anything (new album, tour, etc) you would like to promote?
Stay tuned for a new video for How I Love You. Excited to share soon.
No Comments