Get to know: BLONDSHELL

MUSIC

Jan 21

Blondshell, aka Sabrina Teitelbaum – must be telepathic. I say this because how else would she know my deepest, darkest thoughts, or the contents of my notes app?

Jokes aside, Blondshell is an explosion of vulnerability, with Sabrina’s instantly recognisable voice and raw lyrics that ricochet from humorous to heartbreaking and back again. She looks discomfort and shame directly in the eye, isn’t afraid to say the unsaid thing, and turns yearning and pain into poetry.

And, while there is a clear 2000s influence – a melding of grunge, pop and indie rock – her music is far more than the sum of its parts. Her covers and collabs are further evidence of her ability to transcend genre: if you haven’t heard her version of Addison Rae’s Diet Pepsi I implore you to run, directly, to your streaming service of choice.

Ahead of her shows in Australia, we asked Sabrina a few questions to get to know her a little better <3

What is your favourite conspiracy theory?
The mob killed JFK.

What is your go-to karaoke song?
Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now. Crowd pleaser!

Who are you booking for a dream festival line-up?
Dead or alive: Dennis Wilson, Sade, Cocteau Twins reunion, Paramore and Fiona Apple (piano set).

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?
“You smell good” is always the best compliment.

What is the last thing you Googled?
One Thing After Another cast.

What is your prized possession?
My mugs.

What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Anything along the lines of “think positive,” “just do it,” etc.

What is your go-to comfort meal?
Shrimp Pad Thai.

What are 7 things you find heavenly?
Heating pad
Black mid calf boots
A nicely blended Wurlitzer
Cold off brand mint Oreos
My dog sleeping
AirPods
9.5 hours sleep followed by a big breakfast

You can catch Blondshell at The Factory Theatre, Sydney Wednesday February 4, Crowbar, Brisbane Thursday February 5, Max Watt’s, Melbourne Saturday February 7 and at Party In The Paddock Festival in Tasmania (playing the Paddock Stage on Sunday February 8). See here for tickets.

Words by Isabelle Webster / Photo by Ashley Osborn