Published: July 19, 2009 9:51 PM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight July 2009 Edition
Monica Attell
Monica Attell
Get ready to be impressed by the musical talents of Singer/Songwriter Monica Attell. Monica not only writes music, and sings beautifully, but she has mastered the skills of the flute and piano. With this combination of different talents, music fans are treated to a powerhouse strong female singer with a story to tell through her music. Attell, who makes a transition from earning a Masters in Flute Performance from the Boston Conservatory to performing with the Visions 2000 Gospel Choir to fronting the power pop punk band ZETA BANE, knows what it takes to sweat and blood for what she loves to do.
Now as a solo artist, Monica is banking on the same success she has had previously as she is embarking on a new journey. In this spotlight with Monica, our Webzine speaks one on one with the artist. Enjoy!
Isaac: What has been the best part of 2009 for you musically so far?
Monica: Getting to record my new EP with Chris Young for Izzy Gold records. Chris has worked with George Clinton, the Ravonettes, Wu Tang Clan, Ashley Simpson, Blue Oyster Cult. I really felt like I was getting an education again working with Chris.
Isaac: What do you feel has been the biggest accomplishment for 2009 so far?
Monica: The biggest accomplishment for me was completing the EP "You're Popular." The album has received a lot of positive reviews from Target Audience Magazine, College News Magazine, and other blogs.
Isaac: Describe the music scene in your area.
Monica: It's tough to be a musician in the tri state area which is where I live, that's NY, NJ, CT. There are a lot of very talented people out there performing every night, but people are not going out to see live music as much as they used to. Fortunately, there are many new venues where musicians can perform. I really love performing in NYC. Some of my favorite places to perform are the 169 Bar, the Annex, the Livingroom. When I was little, I always dreamed of performing in NYC so whenever I do, I always have to cherish the moment. NY is really special to me.
Isaac: What has been the best venue to perform at and why?
Monica: I really loved performing at the Elbow Room in NYC. There was a big stage, lighting, full sound system. But there are many places in NY where you have to set up in a small area and that can be really cool too, being really close to the audience.
Isaac: Elaborate a little about whom were your biggest influences in the music industry and why?
Monica: I try to be an active investigator of current trends and procedures in the industry. I really try to educate myself. Donald Passman who wrote the book "All you need to know about the Music Business" has been a driving force for me. Every musician should be educated about the business; we are the only people who will look out for our best interests.
Isaac: Let's talk about what you feel you will bring to the music industry?
Monica: Hopefully a breath of fresh air. I think consumers of music should learn to appreciate good songwriting, good playing, and good production. I believe that these songs are quirky, fun, and are different from what is out there right now.
Isaac: If you had an opportunity to work with one artist or group, who would it be and why?
Monica: I would love to play flute in Eryka Badu's band because I am huge fan. I would also love to sing in a girl group like the Pipettes. Their sound is very similar to mine. There are so many groups that I admire right now I could go on and on. I really like a wide range of music.
Isaac: How would you describe your music to others?
Monica: I would describe it as retro pop with a flute mixed in. Chris Young and myself were going for a sound similar to early 60s singers like Lesley Gore, Peggy Lee.
Isaac: What type of feedback have you received from fans about your music?
Monica: The response has been very positive. The title track "You're Popular" is getting a positive buzz all around the web.
Isaac: Where can fans locate you at online?
Monica: All of my albums are available on I Tunes, Napster, the Orchard, Jango Radio.
Isaac: What can fans expect from you in the next five years?
Monica: Hopefully more music and more live shows.
Isaac: Time for some shout outs to your family, friends, and fans…
Monica: Check out my brother comedian Dave Attell host of the Insomniac with Dave Attell, the Gong Show, HBO special "Captain Miserable," go see him, he's hilarious!
