We have had the honor of having Katy Tessman in studio and even premiered her Mother’s Day video so we were thrilled to talk to her about her new album (Fly) coming out on October 14. You can hear it live on Oct 14 at The Aster Cafe. Fly is an optimistic look at even the hard parts of life. It’s thoughtful and uplifting. And love Katy’s quick take on all of the songs below!
“Fly” is your second album. How does it (and you) feel different from the first release? More exciting, nervous, confident? Or it is like kids, and each is so different – both in form and formation?
My albums ‘Fly’ and ‘Fall’ are distinctly different due to my personal transformation over 20 years. I never thought I’d write and perform again, but this creative resurgence is like I found my wings. I’m immensely proud of these new songs I’ve written over the past two years and I’m thrilled to be sharing them on this new album.
“Vines” is the first single off the new album, ”Fly.” It sounds like perseverance and raising kids to me, but the gentlest side of each. Can you tell me more about the song?
Simply put, “Vines” is about love; all kinds of love: romantic, platonic, the love a mom has for her sons, etc. Love always perseveres! Love is relentless, determined, twisted, and tough … and so much more.
I wrote “Vines” for the Winter 2022 Singer/Songwriter Songwriting Challenge (prompt word: vines). It wasn’t until Michael Koppelman (my friend and album producer) dusted it off, did I realize its potential. The magical Jillian Rae humbly accepted my invitation to perform on the song. To paraphrase, she said “I’m happy to back up another kick-ass woman in music.” Her gorgeous arrangement of violin, viola, and cello complemented by Nikki Lemire ‘s expert harp and harmonies makes “Vines” a gem of a single.
Your songs are primarily uplifting and positive without naiveté. Is it because you are primarily uplifting and positive or are you writing songs to lift yourself (and coincidentally us) up?
There are two exceptions to the positivity rule: Echoes and Broken Part. Both speak about dark times but there feels like there’s an element of growth in the process. Without getting too personal, can you tell us more about these songs? (And is Not too Broken an antidote to Broken Part?)
My parents often remark that optimism is my superpower. I’ve consistently been someone who prioritizes seeing the good in everything. Yes, the experience of writing songs makes me happy, however its the exploration of tough subjects through music is what’s therapeutic.
While this album does feature heartwarming songs, the majority of its content delves into darker themes, such as escaping an abusive relationship, grappling with the profound grief of losing a loved one, and confronting the painful necessity of moving forward. Stories and songs truly heal and my aim is to evoke laughter and tears, spread smiles, while fostering a sense of hope and togetherness.
- “Kiss Me” is a sentimental break up song about the beauty of letting go.
- The haunting ballad of “Echo” takes the listener on a road trip while someone suddenly leaves an abusive relationship.
- “Nobody Knows Me” is one of my more upbeat songs, inspired by my admiration for Emily Dickinson, where I incorporate some of her poetry into the lyrics.
- The heartwarming message of “Treasure Trove” encourages pausing to appreciate the love from family and friends.
- The central theme of “Broken Part,” a song co-written with Michael Koppelman, revolves around the pain of leaving a new love as you prepare to embrace personal transformation and growth.
- As an offering of support and encouragement, “Courage After All” is a song from a parent to their young adult child as they stand at the brink of a significant decision.
- Written by Tim Cheesebrow, “Not too Broken” is a passionate tribute to lifting up those who are in a dark place.
- “Tulips & Daffodils” is a stripped-down duet that lays bare the profound sorrow experienced after the loss of a loved one.
Please tell us about where people can hear you play and about the upcoming release.
On Saturday, October 14 I will be joined by my band, Katy Tessman and the Turnbuckles, to perform an album release concert at Aster Cafe in Minneapolis. The evening’s lineup includes an opening performance by Nikki Lemire and a closing set by Raintribe.
In celebration of the new album, I am touring Minnesota this fall, including stops in Grand Rapids, Duluth, and Aitkin. Being raised by educators, I have roots in the arrowhead of Minnesota where my summers growing up were spent. While I’m based in Minneapolis, I also have performances scheduled in Wyoming, St. Joseph, Chaska, Excelsior, Shakopee, and Northfield.
Mostly Minnesota 