Moosic Do you have a story behind your artist name?
Jennifer Tefft: Well, it’s my name, but I’ve also chosen to use that because my music is so personal to me. As a singer songwriter, I want the audience to connect with me and vice-versa. By presenting my music under my name, and not using a clever band name or alias, I hope that fosters a connection, and lets the listener know that “This is me, this is my story, this is who I am. For a long time, we just used Jennifer Tefft Band when we played as a band, but with Chris and Sharky coming on board as new band members and seeing how invested they were in the project, I felt that the band as a whole needed it’s own name. We are really a bunch of weirdos all with our own strange quirks, so it seemed to fit. We’ve embraced our strangeness as well as the new name!
Tell us a bit about your music journey. How has it shaped you?
I started out playing solo acoustic in the subways of Cambridge, MA and eventually teamed up with my long time guitar player John Parrillo. We’ve been writing and playing together for years (decades, really). Last year we parted ways with our drummer and bass player of 20-plus years as it was time to shake things up a bit and brought on drummer Chris Georgenes and bassist Stephen “Sharky” Beccia. I’d be lying if I said the overall arc of my career hasn’t been a bit of a slog, a lot of blood, sweat and tears – but this new chapter feels like we are really on the cusp of something exciting. I think our songs are stronger than ever, the musicianship is over the top and the chemistry between all the band members is truly popping!
How would you describe your sound to someone unfamiliar with it?
We like to call it gritty-lush alt-rock… with a 90’s flavor.
What drew you to the genre/instruments you’re playing right now?
I’ve always loved to sing. I used to spend hours listening to the radio and albums trying to copy what the singers were doing. I started playing guitar so I could write and accompany myself when a band wasn’t available.
What inspires you to write music?
I typically write when I am upset – or anytime I am feeling something really strongly. Also, when i hear a song that stops me in my tracks and makes me search to figure out who it is; that always inspires me to sit down and write.
Would you tell us about your current project, album/EP, or song you’re promoting?
We are soooooo proud of this album. It’s called Strange Beginnings and is out in May via Rock Garden Records. This is the first recording we have done with this new configuration of the band. The whole process was full of magic, excitement and love. I’ve never had so much fun recording and creating something, I think this is our best work – everyone brought their A-game and I think it shows. Whether it was a song that I wrote and brought to the band or one we wrote as a group, everyone was really invested in each song and each other.
What do you want listeners to take away from listening to your music?
I just want them to feel something when they listen to us – and to all music, really. That is what it is all about. I want the listener to forget whatever they are doing and get lost in the music and let it take them somewhere else.
Who are your top three artists right now? If that’s not a fair question, what’s your favorite song right now?
My top artists are always changing depending on where I am in my life and emotional state [laughs]. I’ve been listening to a ton of Nothing But Thieves, The Kills, and old-school Pearl Jam.
What’s the easiest way for fans to connect with you?
Usually through our website or socials. Just search “Jennifer Tefft” and you’ll find us. Make sure there are two Fs in Tefft! Everyone spells it wrong.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifertefft/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferTefftMusic
Homepage: https://jennifertefft.com/
Bandcamp: https://jennifertefft.bandcamp.com/track/caffeine
What’s next for you?
We have another single coming out soon and then the whole album drops in May. After that we hit the road and play, play, play!
Anything else you’d like to add or let us know about?
Rock music is NOT dead! There are so many great bands out there creating fresh, exciting rock music with REAL instruments. Go out and listen to some!
BIO: Newly signed to Rock Garden Records and New England Music Awards 2021 “Female Performer of the Year”, Jennifer Tefft is a fired up, energizing presence who creates earthy music from its roots and breathes fresh, rock and roll life into them. Her music combines kickin’ rock songs with melancholy textures and vocals that wind easily from ethereal to outspoken. New single “Caffeine” arrives in February 2024, ahead of new album Strange Beginnings in the spring.
