Singer/songwriter Anne Deming is a Midwest native with a seductive and soulful voice. Having written her own music and lyrics, her personal story truly shines in each album. While Deming’s past albums – Beautifully Scarred, Mulligan and the Riverrock Sessions – all showcase her vocals and impressive guitar skills, her new album Dash & Temper brings us even more insight into the masterful storytelling of this true artist.
Sonically, structurally, and lyrically, Dash & Temper differs from the singer-songwriter’s previous works. Recorded in Riverrock Studios in Minneapolis, Deming covers all corners of Americana with sassy, high-tempo tracks like Gasoline & Grit to the slower, soulful sounds as heard on Flutter. No matter the pace, Deming manages to stir something up inside you.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Anne about her latest project, motivations, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I’m from Wisconsin. I’ve lived a few places around the midwest but settled close to the Twin Cities in Hudson. I make electro-cana music (it’s americana with electric music influence)
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
The only music I’ve never connected with is Reggae. But everything else is in rotation. Blues, EDM, Rock, Folk, Classical, Thrash Metal, Pop – if I like what I’m hearing I could give a flying fig what label it is filed under. With each album, sometimes with each song, I like to mix up tempo, sounds and lyric themes. A clash of musical styles is exciting to me.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
I did not try to fit inside a genre. The songs that made it on the CD were my favorites to play at the time and the musicians who joined me (Ian Allison – bass, Jasper Nephew – guitar, Steve Goold – drums) had zero hesitation about mixing up the sound. I recall after the 3rd song on the album was done. Ian remarked that he thought he had me figured out as a folk singer but with each song that perception changed. (best compliment in the world by the way). I don’t like rules in music, therefore I don’t worry about breaking any.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
It’s noisy and not always peaceful but I don’t believe it is oversaturated. with billions of people on the planet there has to be someone, somewhere who will like the music I write. And in 2018 there is also a greater need for individuals to connect with one another. The digital music age is wonderful and if I had to pick one surprise it’s instagram. I was slow to embrace sharing so frequently but as someone who has never had one city/area that I could pinpoint as a fan home base, instagram opened up the world to me. one person at a time. Instagram allows me to share, connect and see other people through music. I can instantly translate comments or profiles and hashtags help me discover what interests music lovers the most. The reach beyond languages, the ability to explore an entire world of music lovers and interact through video has been powerful.
What was the last song you listened to?
Make it Rain – by Tom Waits
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
damn, I have to say MP3s because it’s portable and convenient.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify. First I love playlists and song radio for finding new music I’d never hear on traditional radio (like Russian or Dutch artists). Second, the artist page of Spotify provides a wealth of information – I can find & celebrate the people and places where my music is resonating. Love that.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
Instagram for immediate information and new or favorite acoustic tunes.
Anything else before we sign off?
I have airline miles and plan to use them. If there are Anne Deming music fans – anywhere in the world – I want to come and play for you! Thank you for listening.
