As a solo artist and creative collaborator, Thandi Phoenix is marking a mark in the Sydney soul and electronic scene. Thandi just finished a national tour with Tinashe, performed at Soulfest alongside Angie Stone and Anthony Hamilton in 2014, and recently contributed to tracks by leading producers such as Ta-Ku. Phoenix's approach is an interesting blend of traditional soul and modern beats, and THUMP has first listen of her impressive new track "Judgement". The decision is final, we dig it and we're looking forward to more. We caught up for a quick chat with Thandi to to hear more about the song and her plans for the year ahead.
Thandi: Thank you. Both my parents are avid music listeners and lovers so it's something thats been part of my lifestyle since I was young'n. I went to a performing arts high school for clarinet and singing. I picked up guitar while I was there and have been writing ever since. When I left high school I started gigging in the underground neo/soul jazz world so my involvement with electronic music is quite a recent venture! It's just emerged from listening to different music, having new toys to play and create with, it's fun. I'm enjoying this new direction that I'm exploring.What are some of the musical and lyrical ideas you're exploring on your upcoming debut solo EP?
Sonically, it touches on several different genres. If I'm trynna keep away from too many hybrid descriptions I'd say it's electronic soul. Lyrically, it's about life; the highs, lows and whatever else in between. I write from a truthful place so hopefully people can relate to what I'm talking about.Collaborations are a great way to learn as well as to teach, can you share some of the most valuable lessons learned working with others recently, and over the course of your career:?
Keep it moving! It's so easy as an artistic person working autonomously to get hung up over simple shit. Especially as a virgo! That perfectionist trait can be your best and worst enemy. It's just cool to have other people to bounce ideas off in that creative space, where nothings set in stone and the art can grow when theres different perspectives.Follow Thandi on Facebook.
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THUMP: Congratulations on the new release, a really strong track. Can you share a little of your background in music, and how you came to be involved in electronic music?
Thandi: Thank you. Both my parents are avid music listeners and lovers so it's something thats been part of my lifestyle since I was young'n. I went to a performing arts high school for clarinet and singing. I picked up guitar while I was there and have been writing ever since. When I left high school I started gigging in the underground neo/soul jazz world so my involvement with electronic music is quite a recent venture! It's just emerged from listening to different music, having new toys to play and create with, it's fun. I'm enjoying this new direction that I'm exploring.What are some of the musical and lyrical ideas you're exploring on your upcoming debut solo EP?
Sonically, it touches on several different genres. If I'm trynna keep away from too many hybrid descriptions I'd say it's electronic soul. Lyrically, it's about life; the highs, lows and whatever else in between. I write from a truthful place so hopefully people can relate to what I'm talking about.Collaborations are a great way to learn as well as to teach, can you share some of the most valuable lessons learned working with others recently, and over the course of your career:?
Keep it moving! It's so easy as an artistic person working autonomously to get hung up over simple shit. Especially as a virgo! That perfectionist trait can be your best and worst enemy. It's just cool to have other people to bounce ideas off in that creative space, where nothings set in stone and the art can grow when theres different perspectives.Follow Thandi on Facebook.