The Virgo 9

Snake EP Review and on iTunes!!

2010-07-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

You make think it looks like we've been sleeping, but you couldn't be more wrong. Our Snake in The Studio E.P. is now available. Although, we have temporarily run out of hard copies, you can get still get your copy on iTunes, Amazon...etc.

Here's our first review:

This Girl Got Some Sauce

This is a solid EP, and a departure from The Virgo 9's previous sound on "The Stoner Set". Garage rock meets soul. If you are going to purchase any song on this EP, then I recommend "Baby Please". Vocally, she gives Beth Ditto a run for her money on this one. Soulful vocals meet up with chainsaws that will really put a buzz in your ear. On "I See It", she is really gonna take you to church on this one, just wait for it. Her voice soars.

-Certain Impact

Snake on iTunes

New Interview with Misbehaved Records

2009-10-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Virgo 9 is in the process of finishing up their album, “Outta My Way”. This album has slightly diverged from the noise-garage with a more soulful-juke jointy sound that reaches back to another era of music. I thought I would check in and see what’s going on with them.

1. Last year on WXDU, there was the joke that the world was going to end on 9/09/09. So we are all still here, what’s your prediction for the date when the world could potentially end?

Teresa: Really, I have no idea. I am always slightly morbid about my birthday. This year, I celebrated with Shingles and sugar cookies, so I was kind of hoping for a giant comet. But, with the current state of the world, I am in a a Cold War state of mind. Doom, at any moment, wouldn’t surprise me at all!

2. The name of your upcoming album is called “Outta My Way.” Would you like to elaborate on the where the title comes from?

Teresa: It’s a lyric from one of the songs on the album. It’s open for interpretation. For me, one of the meanings applies to the Burger King way music works these days. You can have it your way, but you have go out of your way to reach your own goals. On the flip side of that, I get sick of all the bitching and cut throat behavior everyone reaching for a musical bread crumb creates. So, it’s a bit of a personal statement. Get the hell outta my way. Shut up and play.

3. The new album has a much more soulful sound. What was the inspiration for going in that direction?

Teresa: Gavin’s massive record 60’s record collection and my growing up in a gospel church. Both have similarities in that it’s simply about emotion and unloading it into tune. The singers on these albums and in these churches sound like they are singing from the pit of their souls. I’m a huge fan of that soft spoken, druggy 90’s sound. But, after years of emulating it in previous projects, I wanted to explore my voice more. To really dig deep and to let it all out….

4. At the moment, who are you listening to on the ole turntable and iPod? What it is about that music that you are really drawn to right now?

Teresa: I’m really into Otis Redding. To be more specific, Otis Blue. The orchestration and his voice are just wonderous to me right now.
Gavin: Whatever scratchy vinyl falls out of the junk store.

5. If you could be a character in a John Hughes film, which one would you choose to be? Why?

Teresa: Ha. I’ve always thought of myself as the Ally Sheedy character in The Breakfast Club. Dark, artsy, slightly anti-social.

6. Most bands have a distinct sound where they use a plethora of effects pedals and some use just one. Which category would you fall into?

Teresa: With this album, clean, fuzz, the resulting feedback and the tremolo arm. No need to complicate things. But, I see the new songs reaching back to my effect laden roots a bit more and maybe, just maybe a return to the keys.

Bonus question: Which Misbehaved band do you think is most likely to get arrested for disorderly behaviour?

Teresa: I refuse to answer this question on the grounds that I may incriminate myself.

http://misbehavedrecords.wordpress.com/2009/10/22/6-questions-for-the-virgo-9/

News & Updates from Hillbilly Country

2009-07-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

What's shakin'?

No, we haven't dropped off of the face of the planet. We have relocated to my home country in the mountains. For the past 2 years, we have been hitting it pretty hard. Hard enough for me to realize that I do not want to be involved with any sort of conventional music scene. I just want to make my music, play every chance I get, and live my life undeterred by the sound dictation of any area. In music, it's an internet driven DIY world and venues truly do not care where you live as long as you show up and do your job.

Living in Triangle, NC and dealing with it's "indie rock" sound circa 1994 made me miserable. I'm not dissing anyone. Everyone has their own tastes. I'm just saying the "in" sound was like nails on a chalkboard to my personal tastes. The back pocket mentality of such a truly small but competitive area really began to take away from the joy that making music brings me. The joy it has brought me since I was 8 years old. I'm not the sort of person to pretend I like something when I do not. I don't like sausage so I won't eat it and pretend it's fantastic. Same thing. Nor am I the sort of person who will say a band is terrible behind their backs yet go out and support them to be seen in their crowd. I encountered this time and time again and I refuse to play high school type popularity games with anyone. That's not what it's about. The old saying, "I'd rather be hated for what I am than loved for what I'm not" applies here.

We have completed recording our newest album titled Outta My Way and we are anxiously awaiting it's early fall release. We'll let you know about that!

While it may appear we are taking a break, nothing could be further from the truth. I have another 40 or so songs in the queue to be recorded. I am currently shifting my focus from live performance to getting these songs down. They will range from Stoner Metal to acoustic guitar drinking ballads to twisted piano love songs.

In the meantime, you can pick up my first Virgo 9 experimental release, The Stoner Set, here:

Stay tuned and keep in touch!

Much Love,
Teresa

Re-Evolution: Reinvention

2009-05-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Way back in the summer of 2007, after nearly a year off, I decided to hit the stage again with a solo project (named after a bastardization of my birthday) called The Virgo 9. Within 2 weeks, I was on stage with a trio and the shows kept rolling in. In fact, they haven't stopped. If I had a dime for every hour I've spent working on this project, I would have a healthy little nest egg.

Within the first year, we had a drummer go M.I.A., a slew of fill-ins, and I had to wing a number of shows solo or as a duo because of the lead guitar player's inability to commit. I was unable to even entertain recording because I feared it would just create more problems. To eliminate some of the uncertainties, I brought back our very first drummer, Gavin, because he's solid and has a great musical work ethic. I'm still amazed I have survived the instability of it all without losing my mind. But, no matter what, I was determined I would not let my ship sink.

Previously being a duo called The Veldas, I knew this would alleviate the challenge of wondering if I would even have band mates for shows which were booked. Still, last fall, I became so frustrated, I began lashing out at people, but could never really put my finger on what the problem actually was or why my heart suddenly felt so black. I knew that something had to be done.

I've been playing music for a long time and projects have a way of evolving. You get more band mates, try new styles, shake up your existing songs, etc. But, my grand plan to slow down didn't help. So, I decided to take a break for evaluation, recording and to find a bass player. Luckily, finding Jim "Bass" Burrow was not only easier than I thought, but also an even better addition than I could have imagined. I knew within 2 songs, he was "the one." Within a few practices, I found myself in awe of both Jim and Gavin. Not only were they helping me find the sound I have been seeking, but they also offered to help me with the behind the scenes stuff too. Sad but true, getting help (even the offer of help) from anyone except Misbehaved Records, was so unfamiliar to me, it set off a light bulb. The problem became obvious.

Music should be made from your heart. In my case, it is. However, sometimes, the lines between loving music and caring about the people you play with get blurry. In my lengthy way, I suppose I'm saying I enjoyed every note Darby and I played together, every conversation we ever had, and every drink we ever shared. But, as time went on and we got more shows, deeper into the recordings, and with my desire to tour growing, I realized that we were very different in our approaches to being in a band. I do not doubt that Darby loves playing. It became apparent my drive was bigger than playing when it's convenient. I'm not saying that it is a misguided philosophy or that it's wrong to approach music in whatever way you choose. It is just not a shared philosophy. I believe in running with the luck we've been blessed to have and I believe in working myself to the bone to make my simple (no rock star fantasies here) dreams come true.

The Virgo 9 now consists of Gavin on drums, Jim on bass, and me doing what I've always done. Our first show as The "newly evolved" Virgo 9 will be Saturday, May 16 @ Pick 'n Bitch. Hosted by the lovely Pinhook.

Hope to see you there!

Teresa

The Stoner Set on iTunes

2009-01-29T10:39:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to announce that my solo album "The Stoner Set" is now available on iTunes in the US store and the UK store. So check it out. The album is sort of a collection of my own recordings over the years and has been reissued with a bonus song- an extended mix of "It Feels Like" recorded in Northampton, England with my good friends Mark Refoy and Johnny Mattock.

A month ago The Virgo 9's "Stoner Set" fell through my letterbox and it's taken me this long to decide which song to use on this compilation. The CD is shows off a brightmellow side of this punk-psych band that a whole lot of people have grown to love through their help on previous compilations (in fact they are probably one of the most mentioned artists in conversations I have with people as in "oh The Virgo 9 - I love em"). "The Stoner Set" seemed to have been designed for lounging around and looking at things quietly, tracks like "My Love Overdrive", "Riverbanks", and "I Feel Like" have kept me captivated for weeks. But in the end I've gone for "Gavin's Theme" - a melodic and haunting piano instrumental from as far back as 2004. It always stops me in my tracks when I hear it & so I hope you'll love to hear it too.
- Smally of The Daydream Generation

You can click here!

Or,here!

Much Love,
Teresa

Best Ad for a Bass Player EVER!

2009-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

So, I posted an ad looking for a bass player. This is what happened:

Post from me:
Why are we looking for a bass player?
We’ve never had one and it’s time!

Who are we?
We’re The Virgo 9. www.myspace.com/thevirgonine We practice weekly and you can look at our show schedule for the general frequency with which we leave the house. We have local label support, releases on the horizon, and some interesting things in the works.

What do we want from you?
First and foremost, the ability to practice and perform all shows listed and a few long weekends away. Flexibility, I suppose it’s called. You must love all music, but have a true fetish for good ole fashioned rock ‘n roll. Having your own equipment is a plus! We’d like you to be a solid player who can bust out some blues runs or stick to the box depending on the song. But, if you sling your axe so it lands on your chest like you just came out of music school, this probably ain’t the outfit for you! Personality is a important…A.K.A. we want someone who actually has a personality and who isn’t afraid to show it onstage or off. Think Lemmy or Joe Buck Yourself on stage w/ Hank III. Though, it’s possibly impossible to find, uprights are welcome as long as you can work it electrified-like!

What do we not want?
Other than thee above, if you are close-minded or have no sense of wanderlust or mischievousness, again, probably not the group for you.

In case this all sounds bitchy, it’s my lengthy way of saying we are looking for a fun and interesting soul with a genuine love for getting out there! Get in touch.

Men or women. Please be under 35!

Post from cowardly local asshat:

Please be under 35!
???????????????????

let's see teresa, you're 34.
darby's 45
gavin's 46....

you're full of shit.

Post from me:

It's very sad that you do not have anything better to do than to verbally attack me on a public ad. Yes, I'm 34 and I'm looking for bassists under 35 due to the changing nature of long term plans. So what?!? I also enjoy my older band mates and it's a guideline. Bands change. How is this your business again? I hope you find some peace within yourself and with your own age. You obviously seem to think you know us. So, if you have a personal issue with me, step up and confront it like normal human being. The email address is attached to the original post and if you know our ages, I'm sure you know where I live. The door is open.

Great way to support local music!

So...any brave souls out there? LOL! Thanks for the help getting our true nature out there, local Asshat! Good to know our pebbles in the pond piss you off!

-Teresa

Other Places You Can Find Us Lurking

2009-01-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

Even we have conceded and given into the ways of Facebook

Hate it. Gotta do it.
MySpace

Cool Widgets and Stats
Reverbnation

Sporadic outbursts and comic news updates.
Twitter

"The only way to behave is to Misbehave." Mae West
Misbehaved Records

Southerners workin' hard and getting it done!
Bucket City Agency

Very soon you will be able to download Teresa's solo release, The Stoner Set, from iTunes, Amazon and more!

A month ago The Virgo 9's "Stoner Set" fell through my letterbox and it's taken me this long to decide which song to use on this compilation. The CD is shows off a brightmellow side of this punk-psych band that a whole lot of people have grown to love through their help on previous compilations (in fact they are probably one of the most mentioned artists in conversations I have with people as in "oh The Virgo 9 - I love em"). "The Stoner Set" seemed to have been designed for lounging around and looking at things quietly, tracks like "My Love Overdrive", "Riverbanks", and "I Feel Like" have kept me captivated for weeks. But in the end I've gone for "Gavin's Theme" - a melodic and haunting piano instrumental from as far back as 2004. It always stops me in my tracks when I hear it & so I hope you'll love to hear it too.
Smally of The Daydream Generation

Duke University Union Campus Concert Series Comp. for iTunes

2009-01-09T16:02:00.000-08:00

We'd like to thank the fine people at Duke CCS for creating a compilation of local music and including The Virgo 9! You can go check it out and download The Virgo 9 and more great local acts like Grey Young, The Never and Nathan Oliver for free on iTunes! Follow this link:

http://deimos3.apple.com/WebObjects/Core.woa/Browse/new.duke.edu.1756814860

Happy Misbehaved 2009!

2009-01-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

For several months now, I have been feeling really down. I haven't felt like writing anything other than songs. I haven't really felt like doing anything other than being a hermit. I have refrained from having a huge bitch session on the internet because it never does any good. But, I haven't been able to restrain myself so much 'round these parts. This area, though smaller than many seem to be able to comprehend, is heaving with so many great musicians it is impossible to count them all. But, with highly active areas come scenester pockets. With those pockets, exclusive parties form and earnest, hardworking bands get edged out and ignored. Novelty begins to take precedence over most anything else and journalism becomes twisted by who is hanging out with whom. Someone please slap me if I ever go pointing out my gender (like, duh!) or start going out to see bands I don't like just to be seen seeing them! I mean it....walk up and slap me!!!! Though I've been told I should, I refuse to apologize for saying how I feel or for challenging the status quo. Perhaps, the viciousness with which my thoughts have popped out is slightly uncouth, but if you've never had such a passionate moment...if aren't that passionate about your own musical existence, I feel sorry for you.

Somehow, all these feelings I have been having have been strangely exhilarating. I have been making music for a really long time and even the creeping feelings of musical depression and frustration are, at least, something new. All the driving myself crazy has resulted in me owning my own ship again and reaffirmed my vow to never let it sink. With some of the best friends I've ever had holding me together, I'm feeling much better now. So, I'm choosing not to dwell here. Instead, I'm choosing to look forward to all of the exciting things we are lining up for this year.

There are several releases planned for 2009 courtesy of our new label Misbehaved Records. We are taking it far lighter on the local shows than we did last year in an effort to get out and about and many out of state dates are in the works.

Hope to see you in your town!
xo, Teresa

The Kitchen Sink Stayed Home

2008-10-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

It didn’t rain. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that for the past year, it has seemed the skies have been holding back until we have a show. Okay, I’m not narcissistic enough to believe in some sort of divine conspiracy, but when it isn’t raining, I take note. It was cold as all holy hell, but you take what you get. And, I suppose you northerners wouldn’t call 50 degrees all that cold.

We made it to Winston-Salem with relative ease. To my surprise, Darby didn’t bring the kitchen sink. She and Kim accused me of shaming them into traveling lighter. I know they were just trying to economize last time. I have just been such a drifter, packing light is second nature. For years, I owned nothing more than what could fit in my car. Durham has settled me a bit. Though, I do wonder if I will ever stop getting the urge to try new places.

We were a bit nervous to play Elliot’s Revue because we had heard they have issues with noise. Knowing that we like it as loud as possible, we lightened the load a little bit more by taking smaller amps. It was really an exercise in self-restraint.

From the moment we walked in, Jack, the bartender, made us feel at home. He immediately gave me the lowdown on the night’s proceedings and handed me a beer. Less than ½ hour after arriving, Mike, the soundman, showed up with a huge smile. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever met such a nice soundperson. He was very conscious of what we needed and really stayed on top of things. Even as we were sound checking, the crowd was talking to us and the majority of those folks stuck around.

It was a new experience in a way that we were the only band playing that night. We had 2 hours to use as we wished. It was also very strange to me because I couldn’t really read the crowd. They seemed like they were hanging out in their living room. At one point, I began to wonder if they were even listening. I really try hard to be involved with the audience, but they seemed happy doing what they were doing and nodding their heads. But, as soon as we finished each set, they really friendly and we unloaded quite a bit of merch. . It’s not often that we play a place and hang out to drink afterwards. Given that we were away from home, it was even more shocking.

Elliot’s Revue, in someway, made us feel as though we were in our living rooms too.

Yo Ho Ho & a Carafe of Coffee

2008-10-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

You know how sometimes what seems like the last straw turns out to be the best thing that ever happened to you? In retrospect, that pretty much sums up our recent trip to Wilmington. Colonel Kim decided she wanted to go along on our road trip and we were happy to have her along on the adventure. That’s the beauty of being a three piece. There’s always room for company! Kim insisted on getting a loaner van, but the van showed up with out seats. So we didn’t have the van. Then we did have the van again. Then we had to convince Darby to get into said van.

Wilmington is only about 2 ½ hours from here, but Darby and Kim packed like we were never coming back. I’m serious. Two small coolers with snacks and drinks, a carafe of coffee with accompanying travel cups, many duffle bags of mystery, a toolbox and an industrial electric cord. I silently giggled to myself! However, tropical depression whomever was blowing through that night and the coffee really came in handy when the rain started to pound us. Then once again on the tense return trip.

We were really psyched to play in Wilmington, but it turned bad. Two of the acts on the floor we were playing cancelled which left us playing last. I insisted the “host” band played last, but he wanted to stick to the line-up. Not wanting to be a bad “guest” I went along. We noticed halfway through the set of the band before us, the soundman disappeared. To my horror, when we played not only did our “host” band disappear, but so did half the crowd. We never saw the soundman again that night. Once again, Colonel Kim to the rescue! Despite her efforts, we were playing in a basement and I couldn’t hear anything. On the fly, I reorganized our songs only playing my guitar when Darby had the leads. I was so furious, I pulled, what Gavin calls, an Elvis and just stood there singing with contempt in my eyes and popped off at the mouth once in a while. I never start a set without finishing it, but at that moment, I had had it and was ready to walk off. Still, I finished the set.

The drive back was no picnic. It was cold and rainy. Even worse, as I have said, I felt like I had been pushed over the edge. I lost my temper like I haven’t lost my temper in years. Poor Gavin, Darby, and Kim had to endure 3 hours of me ranting and raving about all things musical. I just could not shut up. It all kept flowing out. I spouted my views on everything from my musical childhood to the current local scene. When we arrived at Darby’s house, I insisted that I didn’t want to do this anymore and left all of our equipment there. I went as far to hand her the picks out of my pocket and say, “I QUIT!”

I spent the next few days in hiding. I was truly embarrassed and thought my friends would never look at me the same way again. I also knew that it was something deeper that caused me to react the way I did to one bad show. I’m used to those by now ;)
So, I did a lot of thinking about the possible cause of my frustration. And luckily, I have the kind of friends who just see me as passionate.

Over the course of our time together, I think we’ve played a fair amount of shows. In a year, I lost count at 38 pressless shows. I got sick back in August, and stayed sick for about 6 weeks. I would think I was getting better and it would come right back. I blame this on continuing to play while sick and germy bar mics. Just thinking about whose lips and other punk rock body parts may have touched them makes me cringe! I realized that maybe, just maybe I’ve been pushing myself a little too hard. We haven’t even had time to record a proper album. I’ve been building a database of venues for when we can go further out than NC, booking, playing, juggling drummers, doing all the admin. & graphic Goodness, hosting bands, and let’s not forget working and living a real life. A friend recently told me that it was okay to feel tired. I looked at her like she was insane. But, it’s true. Again in retrospect, I think the cold was my body’s way of telling me something. So for now, and with much restraint, I’m taking it a little lighter on the booking until we finish this recording and grow our set a little bit. I feel that it is a necessity before we go any further. I guess I just feel that working hard is a measure of my drive for all this.

In the meantime, I’m writing lots of new songs and reviving some oldies. Our website is still being tinkered, but it’s live. And, I’m working on a couple of projects with Subdivision 67, which will hit a ledge near you before the end of the year. Wilmington was a great experience. I’m too tough and I mean it too much to quit. Thanks for the reminder.

Cherry has been Saved!

2008-09-27T16:38:00.000-07:00

I'm in a rightfully foul mood. My life and my past have geared me to be one tough cookie. I always get up and dust myself off letting the anger turn to energy. But, the thing is, I'm not really that tough. Yup, I said it. I'm actually quite the thinker and feeler and I try to put all of my emotions into my projects rather than lash out at the world. Despite having the magic social talker button I can push on demand to cover the thoughts behind my eyes in smiles and complements, I tend to be a hermit and spend more time with my guitar than any one thing on the earth. I have a couple of mottos about playing which I stand by, "If you aren't giving everything, you are giving nothing." And, "If you aren't sweating, you aren't working. Get out of the way!" I am frustrated beyond belief with music right now. Not my band for once, we are actually getting tighter and more ambitious. But just the whole political landscape around here and how it spread as far as Wilmington last night. I've never been treated with such disrespect. It's actually made me cry and crying pisses me off. I could go on forever with this and the reasons I'm feeling this way. I could name names and start some wars, but to quote Gossip, "I don't want to be a part of any social scene who only puts me down and judges me. I don't ever want to be that girl, the saddest thing in the whole wide world."

So, let's change the subject and talk about something good. Perhaps it will remind me why my love (aka...music) has to hurt sometimes. Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of playing with Joe Buck and The Karloffs @ The Cave in Chapel HIll. Please check out The Karloffs. I cannot say enough about them musically or as people. They are special....and not in the short bus kinda way;) Sir Joe Buck was a true joy to have kicking around The Cave. His performance was, as usual, brilliant. He has a true gift for engaging the audience and for making them feel valued. Even sitting in the back room of The Cave, he seems to have an aura around him that just sparkles. I was amused to watch people gravitate towards it like a moth to a lightbulb. It was also cool to meet the BCA brainchild, Christian, who put the show together. And the ever so sweet merchandise guru, Kathy. (That's not only how I see her, she's so much more!) It was clear the three of them have a true passion for what they do and it was refreshing to be around such genuine souls. I have an admiration for their fierce independence. Even choosing to sleep in a Wal-Mart parking lot than on a quiet street.

I was most disappointed in my performance. My poor guitar has been even more of a bitch lately than ever before. I brought her back from England and almost got arrested at Customs over it. I have had that damn thing rebuilt and cosmetically touched up 3 times now. Still, she reminds me that she owns me every once in a while. I was soooo embarrassed that it had to be at a show that was so important to my waivering confidence to play. Funny how things work sometimes though. There happened to be a guitar repairman who came out to see Joe Buck who approached me later with a few ideas. I met with him later that week only to find out that, despite what the last repairman told me, my ancient floating bridge and tuning gears hadn't been replaced at all. They were still original to the guitar and the source of my problems. I was ready to burn it that night or at least start playing a different guitar I would never love as much, but due to fate, she was saved. Fascinating, this universe. Yeah, that hurt and I died a little inside that night, but it worked out for the better in the end. I even learned something.

So, thanks Joe Buck and Bucket City Agency. Positive experiences are always appreciated.

T.

FINALLY!!!

2008-08-25T18:45:00.000-07:00

As I write this blog, a very cheesy 80's song is running through my head...."The search is over. You were with me all the while." We are nearing our 1 year anniversary as a band (I'll write about that soon) and what a year it has been! I am fully convinced that if we made it through this year, we can make it through just about anything.

Only a few months after starting to play live, we were left high and dry by the drummer we loved most. For the past several months, my booking and playing life has been nothing but over complicated and stressful by having to juggle fill-in drummers and an endless search to find a motivated, permanent individual. Still, we carried on...somehow. We were most blessed to have Jessica from Pink Flag and Gabe from The Pneurotics always having our back. We will always regard them with the highest of respect! They are both incredibly talented.

But, Gavin was our original drummer. He was the first one to hit a stage with us and the most consistant at being there when no one else could make it. Always helping us load and getting our drunk asses home safely. Even though he is my husband, I was truly hesitant about having him in my band. Being a Billy Childish produced artist, he has quite the musical past himself and my pride got in the way. First off, he's really a guitar player and his drumming is very primal. Secondly, I never wanted anyone to make the mistake that he writes any of my songs. I was in bands and writing volumes of songs way before I met him. I was so adamant about this, at one point, I recorded myself one-woman band style to see if I could pull it off. I was ready to go that route. But, as a result of listening to these recordings, I realized that primal sounding is exactly what I've been looking for from a drummer. Think Hasil Adkins, Joe Buck, Natty Brooker from Spacemen 3 or Gossip.

At that point, the funniest thing happened. We were asked to play the Swannanoa show and no one else could help me that day. As always, Gavin stepped in and we had a great experience. I began reflecting on all those husband/wife bands I know...Red Collar, Beloved Binge, Juanita and The Rabbit, Sequoya, and Sawteeth McTweedy. And, I began to see things differently. When we were married, Gavin knew that I would be dedicating the rest of my life to this rollercoaster ride. At times, he says my work ethic is astounding and more driven than anyone he's ever met. So, in thinking about these bands, I became inspired by the mobility they have as a couple and how I never, once, ever looked down on those women for being in bands with their spouse. Pride goeth before a fall.

When I spoke with Darby about it, I had much hesitation in my heart, but if I remember correctly, her words were, "What are ya? Stupid? Of course!"

So, help me in welcoming Gavin (a.k.a Agent Ugly ) to The Virgo 9 tribe. We are very proud to have him.

-Teresa

Time for an Evolution

2008-08-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

It may seem that I have been a little quieter than usual, but I assure you, it's the calm before the real storm begins. There has been a lot going on behind the scenes in our camp. For a few months, I have been feeling an internal need to grow into more of our potential. Upon starting this project, neither Darby nor myself expected the support, reception or constant gigging we were about to face. We are most grateful, but I feel it's time to evolve a little bit further than our initial expectations of ourselves.

The next couple of months will see us going a little lighter on the shows than we have have over the past year. We are not wussing out. In fact, little could be further from the truth. We are getting ready to begin recording our first full length album and would prefer to shift our focus a bit while doing so. In addition to that and in our usual DIY style, we will be, with S67's help, screenprinting our own shirts and working on a proper press kit. We are also going to be adding many of my new and older songs to our set. And I will be working hard to get one version of us or the other out to neighboring states this winter.

On top of all of this, we have joined forces with new partners in crime, Subdivision 67. We are thrilled to be part of such a positive and talented group of DIYers. Motivation like these folks is rare, and it's an honor. Please hit the link on the side to learn more.

On a more personal note, we have added a new member to our V9 family. His name is Coal Train. For a few months, I have been carefully considering (especially with the thought of touring alone) adopting a puppy. I went back and forth and came to the conclusion that if it were meant to be, it would happen. Animals have always had a way of finding me. During the consideration process, it seemed that every dog in Durham knew what I was thinking. Everywhere I went, I made a new friend. I really didn't expect it all to happen so quickly, but upon going to a party last Friday night and being told Coal was shelterbound, I knew what I had to do. By Sunday, he was laying on the couch with me watching movies. He is an awesome dog. He only barks at the door, loves my cats, and even knows a few commands. Let the evolution begin.

Little Things Matter

2008-07-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

Overall, in the almost one year Darby and I have been hitting the ground with our music, we cannot complain. We've had so-so nights, bad nights, and nights we wish we would have just stayed home. But, that's the nature of the beast and those are really not the things that stick with me. I am always driven by the quirky things and the kind things I get to experience. I love the stories I hear and after the week I've had, I have been thinking about those people who quietly make it all happen.

On Sunday, I was horrified to open my guitar case to realize my input had fallen inside my guitar and the washer was completely gone. So, I packed her back up and headed over to Guitar Center to see if they could help me out. I needed it back by Wednesday and I was in quite a panic. Luckily, both Eric and Allen (The Antagonizers, Blood Red River) were working. Within minutes, I had my guitar all doctored up and a new drum key in my pocket. I used to have a phobia of music stores because of the geekier than thou rip off artists I have experienced. Through a new acoustic, a constant need for picks, straps, cords and strings, and sometimes just needing a laugh, Allen and Eric have always greeted me with respect and the funniest banter you could ever imagine! They've never tried to sell me on something I don't need and they have always encouraged me. Thanks, gentlemen!

Tuesday saw me meeting up with Darby and Kim to have some dinner before heading to see Shana Scudder and Sequoya play. From the day Kim and I met, she has always looked out for me and kicked my ass onto the stage. She threw the most wonderful Rockin' in The Park bash, listens to my endless supply of musical annoyances, and then she gives the best advice. On top of that, she takes the best photos of us and keeps me snacking more healthily on homegrown cucumbers. All this while doing Subdivision 67!

Last night, we played with Twilighter @ Fuse. I'm not saying that other venues we've played have not been good to us, we've been very lucky. But, Fuse went above and beyond. We were shocked to hear that we got free drinks and a free meal! And we're not talking PBR and some greasy fries. We dined on Kobe burgers, tofu taquitos, and panco crusted talapia. The crowd and Twilighter were amazing to us. I came home with a lot less merch. and money in my pocket. There was the incident involving a thrown drink barely missing me which made our new catchphrase, "She was about 2 seconds from getting her ass beat." pop out of my mouth, but it was such a good experience everyone laughed it off. I think the most impressive thing was the bartender, Mark. When I tried to cheap out and order PBR, he insisted I upgrade. I realized that I didn't have any personal cash to tip him, so I bought a pack of cigarettes. When I went to sign my credit card slip, he told me not to leave a tip. I did anyway and then watched him take the money and drop it in the band's tip jar. It really warmed the heart.

On the way out of Chapel Hill, I realized I had done the unthinkable. I left my guitar behind! I've always secretly been so horrified of that moment I thought it would never happen. Luckily, we weren't futher away and we turned around. Upon getting back to Fuse, I found it untouched and where I left it.

I want to write more about some of those bands I've mentioned in this blog. They have all helped me a lot too. But, this week has already worn me out. I'll get to them in due time. In the meantime, I have a date with my couch!

Reuse Before Recycle & Facebook

2008-07-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

Growing up with my Grandma Esther made it impossible for me to grow up and not be creative. I can remember being a child and watching her create quilts from old clothes. In her day, doing these things was a necessity. She raised 9 children on a WV coalmining budget. She used to involve me in all sorts of artistic activities and to this day, her strong will to survive, to garden and her creative reuse teachings have stuck with me. She always encouraged me to express myself and, if necessary, to fight for my life and stand by what I believe in.

I suppose, if I have one cause to endorse (other than my music,) it would be reusing things. We have enough stuff on earth! My house is full of spice containers turned into pen holders, coffee cans turned into planters, junkmail turned into stickers, old books turned into canvas and envelopes...etc. It's such an easy thing to do.

Upon moving to Durham, I was thrilled to find The Scrap Exchange! http://www.scrapexchange.org/ For a girl like me, it's the perfect retail therapy. They share the same philosophy and I find just about anything I need to spruce up my strange artwork there without breaking my bank or my committment to this one thing I believe in. So, upon seeing their open call for reuse artists, I jumped at the chance to submit some of my work. I have been very blessed here in Durham to have the chance to not only share my music, but also my artwork. The reception is tonight from 6-9PM. Come out and join in!

Now for something not so pleasant, Facebook. A friend (who still thinks I'm into astrology) called me to inform me that my birthdate is called The Day of The Enigma. She thought it was funny because she's known me for years and claims she still doesn't know anything about me. Other than saying what I think, I guess I am really private. So, last night, in an effort to get my music on more sites, I tried joining Facebook. Within the first 5 minutes, it felt so invasive and creepy, I deleted it. If you got an invite to be my "friend." Sorry. That is just NOT for me. Myspace is bad enough!

xo, Teresa

Cicada Omega

2008-07-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Music is a constant rollercoaster ride. After a couple of days of being on the upswing of it, today leaves me feeling a bit down. So, in an effort to perk myself up, I want to talk about something positive. Cicada Omega. We drove down to Swannanoa, NC to play an artist's collective with them. From the first moment I met them, it was hugs all around and as Dan said, it was like we had known each other for years. To say that it was fun and full of debauchery, is an understatement. In fact, I think I may still be recovering. Everyone at Ghost Town was a truly unique soul who made us feel right at home. I was welcomed with great conversation, food, and free drinks. I truly believe some of those cats will go on to do some interesting things with themselves. Cicada Omega played a blistering, freeformish set which had everyone up, moving, participating and letting their hair down.

I did my usual, TIME TO GO & disappeared into the night to head back home to get my house ready for guests and to try to get a little rest before heading to The Cave to play with them again. Thanks to the previous week's mini-festival featuring the same, same, same local acts, The Cave turned out to be very low-key, but they played another perfect set and my friends and the barstaff were most impressed with them. I brought them back here and we spent a couple of hours talking about life, music and they left me feeling most inspired.

Sometimes when you live in an active musical bubble, you forget that there is a big world out there. It's no secret that, for the most part, I am not too keen on the local political scenes. I feel as though we are ignored and when we aren't being ignored, I am constantly having to fight for everything from time slot to dates to any ounce of being taken seriously. If not for my real friends and close family keeping me together some of the BS (mostly what the local writers choose to write about and promote on their badly designed stuff-to-do sites) would have seen me crumbling like a cookie. And lately, I have been considering throwing in the towel and moving back into the woods to approach music differently. But, being around the Cicada Omega folks reminded me that I'm as valid as the next person with a guitar and there are other options out there for me. Even if I do have to get on a plane to be appreciated.

The four of them MEAN what they do from their hearts, there is no pretentious crap with them and it shows in their music. If they are coming to a town near you, I highly recommend them. You won't be sorry. They are the real deal!

Check out the Quick Like a Bunny link for local thoughts on them!

The Possibilities Are Endless!!!

2008-07-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of weeks, Darby and I have been playing for fun with our friend Kim. It has been a most refreshing experience playing for the sake of it and trying new things. Last week, I discovered that I could actually throw down some bass licks and kick out a beat on the drums. I considered it beginner's luck. Last night, I decided to give it a go again. I've never really had much desire to play drums. In fact, I had always considered them quite intimidating. But, I have say, I impressed myself. Lord only knows how I was able to do it, but I took to it like a duck in water. Perhaps it was all those years behind the piano teaching my legs and arms to act separately. I was even able to sing while playing them. This made me most curious, so when I came home raving about how much I enjoyed it, my husband suggested I try playing my guitar, playing the kick drum and singing my songs. Except for those couple of oddly timed songs, it worked! I mean, it really, really worked. It worked so well, I'm gonna start doing some of our tunes that way. Look out world. I just found yet another way to take The Virgo 9 out there!