Formula Indie Sessions – Interview with Teri
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
My Dad is a huge David Byrne fan. I was indoctrinated in utero! I remember being obsessed with a song called “Loco De Amor” from the album “Rei Mono”. I called it “Ah” and I would practically demand my family to play the song over and over and over again.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
I have always been creating silly songs with melodies that scratched an itch in my brain. I would repeat them around the house – to my family’s annoyance – until I got sick of it. I suppose my true passion for creating music intentionally and purposefully arose from my need to vent my emotions back in high school. Since then, creating has been something I use as a therapeutic tool more than anything.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
“Forever” was created in Amsterdam with the intuitive songwriter Selwyn and skilful producer Tommy Lambrechtsen during my trip to The Netherlands, funded by Create Australia’s ‘Export Development Fund’ for ‘Professional and Artistic Development’. This was the first songwriting session I had during my trip in 2024. It was such a positive experience filled with connectivity and buzzing creative energy. I felt safe to open up to the boys about my fears surrounding my lack of control of the future and the ultimate knowingness that I must accept this in order to find peace in the present. I spoke of my past, and how sure I once was of pathways I thought I would never stray from, but have since. I remember Selwyn began to play what now is the key motif of the song on this gorgeous wooden upright piano in the studio. He had translated my emotions into music with such intuitive fluency. The track was then further developed, mixed and mastered back in Sydney with Jesse Deskovic and Ben Feggans from Studios 301.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
Introspective pop with undertones of Celtic-folk influence.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
A good song has its own personality and journey; you can’t force it to be something it’s not. You’ve got to grab on and go along for the ride.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
My guitar is a great tool I use almost all of the time. I also love playing about with the piano and finding unique chord progressions to inspire me. My voice memo app is an absolute essential; without it I would forget many of my improvisations that turn into main melodies and hooks. I also use songwriting books and my notes app to record lyrical ideas and concepts for songs. Logic Pro X is also a valuable tool for me, particularly in building, mapping and arranging my vocal harmonies and layers.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
I am in love with “After All – Piano Version” by Sarah Kinsley.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
A lot of my favourite creations were based on real-life events. I use writing as therapy. I think my artistic vision has been heavily shaped by my experiences in travelling solo. I have had the opportunity to escape the fast-paced parts of life and look inward at who I am and who/what my art is as an extension of myself.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
In all my songs, there is hope. I wish for listeners to hear the nuance I present and take that into their own lived experience. Knowing that nothing is inherently good or bad and we can find the positives that are always available if you look hard enough. I think because my songs are often mantras for myself, I hope they become helpful reminders for others too.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Music has taught me how to connect with something greater than myself. Often, it is a deeply spiritual experience for me – almost as though I am channelling from a well of ideas. It grounds me and teaches me of the human experience by allowing me space to feel it all.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
The Sydney Opera House for sure! I saw Kimbra perform there a short while ago and it was very inspiring.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
David Byrne. I think he is one of the most versatile artists/creatives ever. He’s done it all – rock, pop, orchestral and Latin music are just a few of the genres he has created within. I also have been indoctrinated, as I said earlier… so perhaps I am biased.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)
Here is my LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/NEAVofficial – Everything should be there
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
I would love to land some sync opportunities. A dream of mine is to have my music in a video game or dramatic fantasy show.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
I hope my authenticity comes through in my music, content and written words. I hope to slowly introduce myself through these mediums.
