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Previously known for her Blues/ Folk sound, Canadian born Natasha Meister has now changed things up and gone for the rockier/ edgier sound, and we like it. Natasha has recently dropped her new EP “What Goes Around” and we caught up with her to chat about it as well as her South African music fans, what we can expect in the future and more.
For people not familiar with Natasha Meister, please give some insight to who you are and what your journey has consisted of?
I’m a 23 year old Canadian rock singer and guitarist. I was born in the small country town of Thorndale, Ontario, Canada. Started singing in my local church back home at the age of 7 and my dad taught me guitar when I was 14. Made the move to SA 5 years ago. Released my debut album “Half Way” in 2010, and my latest offering is a 5 track EP “What Goes Around” featuring a rockier/ edgier sound.
Congrats on the release of your EP “What Goes Around”. What has been some of the response you have received so far?
Thanks! So far the response has been really positive. We’ve had some nice media reviews. People are loving the edgier look and sound. I think a lot of my fans were very surprised, but mostly in a good way.
Tell us about the 5 tracks on the EP and what they mean to you?
The EP starts with a rock/ pop track called “I Hope You Know”. It’s my first single which has a more commercial feel in my opinion. The lyrics are cheeky and about a bad break up. Next is “This Desire” – taken off my debut, but it’s a raw acoustic version. It’s a sad love song.Then “Drowning” another reprised acoustic version. In this song I speak of day dreaming and getting lost in my own thoughts while letting reality slip away. “Shadows” is my personal favourite track – it’s a heavier rock song about the inner fight between good and evil. And finally “Burn The Water” also a reprised acoustic version. It was about a past relationship that was on the rocks.
Originally known for your blues/ folk sound, what has the transition to pop/ rock been like for you?
The transition from blues to rock was natural for me. I see rock like just a heavier/ edgier version of blues. It’s been exciting experimenting with these new sounds.
What is your reason for the transition and what has it done for you as a musician?
The reason was a desire and urge to explore a new sound. I was surrounded by friends and musos into rock that really inspired me. It’s been a challenging move but so far the feedback has been positive and motivating, and I’m going to continue with rock and see how far it goes.
You have just come off performing at the Nationals Arts Festival and your East Coast Tour. What were some of your highlights of your performances?
The National Arts Fest was so much fun. I think the best part about it was connecting with other performers and supporting one another at shows. Chatting and signing CD’s for fans was also a highlight. East London was a blast. We performed at ‘Legends’, a venue I had the opportunity of playing at for the opening last year, so it was good to be back. Also, we performed at Barrydale Hotel, and it’s just the cutest hotel in the smallest town with the friendliest people.
How have fans reacted to your new sound and the new songs?
My fans have been incredible and super supportive. The majority genuinely love the new sound. And it’s been a relief to know that, as I knew the change would be a gamble.
Have you got any music videos planed for your new singles? If so, for which song and when can we expect it?
The plan isn’t set in stone yet, but I do hope to shoot a video of either “I Hope You Know” or “Shadows” before the end of this year.
Where do you see your career taking you now with your new sound and the Natasha Meister Band?
I believe my new sound appeals to a wider and more youthful audience now, not only in SA but internationally, so I’m hoping some big breaks will come our way. The dream is to fill stadiums and play at the biggest festivals in the world, and maybe the chance to share stages with the likes of Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Switchfoot, and Paramore! Nothing’s impossible.
Where would you say most of your inspiration and drive comes from?
God is my greatest inspiration. He’s blessed me with the gift of music so now it’s time to share it with the world!
Catch Natasha Meister at the following upcoming shows:
19th July – Alma Cafe
25th July – Mercury
9th August – Alexander Bar & Cafe
14th August – Cafe Roux, Noordhoek
24th August – Berties Moorings, Gordonsbay
Photos by Vanessa Correia Meninamay photography
