Northland Reader Weekly, Duluth, MN/Superior, WI
June 7, 2001

Listen Up! -- CD Review by Jeff Loudermilk
Katy Tessman Fall, Rhythmelodic Records

At first blush, Katy Tessman's CD Fall seems to come into line with much folk music's mainstream. There are many elements reminiscent of artists like Judy Collins and Janis Ian, Tessman's voice seeming like a synthesis of these two giants of the 70's folk scene. But to judge initially on these surface elements does not do justice to this well-engineered piece of work.

To understand Tessman's work, you need to take a look back at a little of her musical history. First of all, while this is her solo debut, this is not Katy's first time in the studio. From 1993-97, she was the lead singer of Twin Cities folk-rock band Joe's Elevator, a quartet that had some success in the coffeehouses and bars of the Cities. Their CD Up & Down, which premiered to large crowds at The Fine Line Music Cafe in Minneapolis, had moderate sales and established Katy as a fixture in the Twin Cities folk scene.

Since that time, she has worked to promote other folk artists in the Cities, as well as polishing her solo performances. Joe's Elevator disbanded later in 1997, after the release of Up & Down and Katy has been flying solo ever since. It is a journey that Katy seems to take with great gusto, and it shows in the work that went into Fall.

Songs such as "Make You Stare" and "Odd Timing" speak to Tessman's strengths in the folk-rock genre, and remind one a little of the stylings of Sheryl Crow. However, where Katy really begins to show her own dimensions as an artist are in the songs like "Caribou" and "Fall," the title track. The music in the CD is heartfelt and honest, with as many outward observations as there are introspective moments.

Perhaps the greatest compliments that can be paid to this debut effort are Tessman's sensibilities in surrounding herself with a broad range of musical talent, and the production quality invested into the work. There is careful attention paid to assure that Katy's voice, as strong and clear as it is, does not overwhelm the cast of supporting players. Balance is achieved, and the entire CD rings with clockwork precision that promises even better things in the future.

This CD will speak to fans of folk, but more that that, it will speak to some who aren't fans of the genre. Her energy, if not her voice, is distinctive and infectious.

Katy has been performing heavily in the Twin Ports as of late, making regular appearances at The Inn on Lake Superior. She will continue to make appearances in support of the new CD, including stints at Beaner's Central (June 8), Amazing Grace (June 15) and the Park Point Music Festival (June 30). Fans of all stripes will find something to enjoy for themselves.

Photography by Jon Duder.