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27 Jul

Posted at 18:05h in Music, Reviews
The debut album from UK sensation Rox Tataei truly lives up to its name. This is indeed a warts-and-all exposé of her romantic history so far.  From regret over the one that got away (‘Heart Ran Dry’) to recounting the unhinged antics of her current beau’s ex-girlfriend- a menace to the happiness of her relationship (hidden track ‘Gallais’), Rox does not hold back. Such honesty can provoke one of two reactions from the listener-either it isolates us because it’s all a little too personal or it endears us to the artist, as if we’re being let into their confidence.  In this instance it’s a case of the latter, thanks to Rox’ lovely alchemy of memorable melodies and well-crafted lyrics.

22 Mar

Posted at 11:30h in Reviews
Thursday night at Dingwall’s in Camden saw soulstress Rox Tataei play the London date of her first headlining UK tour.  It was a sold out show as hundreds of punters squeezed into the relatively cosy venue to watch one of 2010’s brightest rising stars, Rox having been tipped for greatness by everyone from the BBC to the Broadsheets. The supporting acts, Ghost Poet and Liam Bailey, were more than up to the task of opening such a prestigious show.  Both these artists are personal friends of Rox and come highly recommended for big things by the lady herself.  First up was the ever-so slightly eccentric Ghost Poet with his quirky musings over rock/Hip Hop rhythms.  He was swiftly followed by Liam and his acoustic trio.  Bailey is a revelation; an adroit songwriter with an appealing, scratchy Marley-esque vocal mixed in with phraseology and chord progressions reminiscent of Sam Cooke.  Something of an old soul, Bailey’s voice alone could tell a thousand stories without articulating a lyric. By the end of his blinding set he had the audience eating out of his hand and rightly so; he very nearly stole the limelight. However once Rox was on stage - all smoky almond eyes, scandalously red pout and looking like a petite 21st century Nefertiti - there was no question why so many have faith in this young lady’s abilities. 

29 Dec

Posted at 18:00h in Interviews, Music
Roxanne Tataei’s musical journey began in church, encouraged by the choirmaster (“He’d make me go at the forefront [to sing] every week and I’d be shaking… It was the best thing that he could have done”).  Primary school performances soon led to tours around England with the National Youth Music Theatre, which she describes as a “grounding” experience, before putting it all to the side in favour of writing her own music and experimenting with sounds. Following an extended trip to Mexico she formed an acoustic jazz trio and gigged around London, which brought the A&Rs her way.  Then last year, in stepped Rough Trade records and ROX's solo quest began.