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Joan WasserAmerican singer, violinist and songwriter in the indie rock world
Date of Birth: 26.07.1970
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Joan Wasser: Indie Music Luminary
- Embarking on a Musical Odyssey
- Collaborations and Creative Ventures
- Joan as Police Woman: Solo Success
- Critical Acclaim for "Real Life" and "To Survive"
- Recent Endeavors
Joan Wasser: Indie Music Luminary
Early Life and Musical BeginningsJoan Wasser was born on July 26, 1970, in Biddeford, Maine. Raised in Norwalk, Connecticut, she began her musical journey at age six with piano lessons, transitioning to violin at eight. By the time she entered college, Wasser had honed her violin skills in school and local orchestras.
Embarking on a Musical Odyssey
At Boston University, Wasser studied under renowned violinist Yuri Mazurkevich, a disciple of David Oistrakh. She played with the Boston University Symphony Orchestra before joining local bands such as Lotus Eaters, Dambuilders, and Hot Trix. As part of Dambuilders, Wasser made her mark in the indie rock scene with her distinctive, edgy violin playing.
Collaborations and Creative Ventures
Beyond her work with Dambuilders, Wasser collaborated with artists like Nathan Larson and Chris Dowd. She experimented with various musical styles in the late 1990s and co-wrote songs for Dambuilders' releases. Following the band's dissolution in 1997, she formed Black Beetle with former members of Jeff Buckley's band. Wasser also joined Antony and the Johnsons, contributing to their Mercury Prize-winning album "I Am A Bird Now."
Joan as Police Woman: Solo Success
In 2002, Black Beetle disbanded, and Wasser embarked on a solo career with her new band, Joan as Police Woman. The trio, featuring Ben Perowsky on drums and Rainy Orteca on bass, released an eponymous EP in 2004. Wasser wrote the group's material, played multiple instruments, and provided lead vocals. The band toured with Rufus Wainwright in 2004, expanding their audience.
Critical Acclaim for "Real Life" and "To Survive"
Joan as Police Woman's debut album, "Real Life," was released in June 2006, garnering critical praise. It won for "Best Pop/Rock Album" at the 7th Annual Independent Music Awards. Their second studio album, "To Survive," followed in June 2008, charting in Q Magazine's Top 50.
Recent Endeavors
After a European tour in late 2009, Wasser returned to New York City and released a covers album simply titled "Cover." She continues to perform and collaborate, lending her talents to countless musical projects, solidifying her status as a versatile and acclaimed artist in the indie rock world.
