AUSTIN, TEXAS // JOANNABARBERA.COM
Joanna Barbera - Vocals, Guitar Kyle Clayton - Bass Steve Bernall - Cello Julia Parmenter - Backing Vocals
JOANNA BARBERA is a barnburner. Nine of Eleven songs from her self-released debut album, “Carnival Beginning”, are licensed for MTV productions. She’s been on nation-wide tours totaling over 200 shows, appeared on FOX News 7, and is tightening her second album. She has accomplished this without a label. Barbera has a reputation steeped in dedication, talent, and motivation. She’s a buried treasure, a coveted find for any record label. Any label that is wise enough to “dig” her… As an independent artist, Barbera has tirelessly shared her sounds and stories while building an ever-growing fan base across the US. She has supported “Righteous Babe Records” artist Hammell on Trial and folk legend Melissa Ferrick, shared an SXSW showcase with Sharon Van Etten, and recently opened for the talented Mindy Smith and Monty Montgomerey. She has performed in famed venues including the Living Room (New York City), Antone’s (Austin, TX), the Ninth Ward at Babeville (Buffalo, NY) and the Hotel Café (Los Angeles, CA). Just outside New York City in the Hudson Valley, Barbera’s love affair with music began as a child, parked on a piano bench. Her grandmother tickled out old standards on those keys that were the fire starter for the flames Joanna can’t stop stoking. Now a resident of Austin, TX, the grown Barbera builds her own smoldering music, with a sound that is anything but standard. Barbera’s voice is dark honey, her words sweet bee stings. Something comes out that is close to seduction, or a secret offering – mystical, powerful, and intimately genuine. There are overtones and undertones, and vulnerability. Her sound hints of Cat Power and Regina Spektor, but there is no question her voice, music and impact are uniquely her own. She offers a strange and refreshing blend of refined, high art plus unrefined, low melancholy. The listeners are allowed space to make the meaning their own. Her performances are enthralling, versatile, dynamic like her recordings. Energy and sentiment fuel a stunning solo set, or melt seamlessly into the powerful harmony of a duet or a full band. No matter the equation, there is always a guaranteed emotional ride if you step into the music with her. At the end of any performance, Barbera’s voice lingers long after the singing is done, the listeners want more. Joanna Barbera on what music means to her: “My songs are like my home”. This is a statement not to be taken lightly by an artist with her travel history. “Carnival Beginning” is Barbera inviting us into her home. It is a welcome mat.
"Carnival Beginning is an auspicious start for Bay Aea transplant Joanna Barbera and her urban folk. “All my life I’ve been an instigator,” she sings in “Just as Well,” fair warning that Barbera’s not content with labels or neat little compartments, though the Tori Amos/Ani DiFranco influence is evident. The smoky timbre of her voice wraps cozily around confident originals like “Fat Face” and the Waitsian lope of “Bus Stop,” just enough to inspire a return trip" >> Margaret Moser - Austin Chronicle
"Where are all these new urban folkies coming from? This singer-songwriter moved to town from the Bay Area, where she had a residency at the influential Hotel Utah. Barbera’s new album `Carnival Beginning’ sounds a little Ani, a little Tori, but such songs as `Pretty’ and `December,’ sparingly lit by a four-piece band, distinguish themselves." >> Michael Corcoran - XL Austin American Statesman
"Comparisons may automatically be made with indie folk pop darling Ani Di Franco from the first track, “Just As Well”, but Austin via California musician Joanna Barbera distinguishes herself with personal lyrics that traverse a poetic, self-reflective journal, complimented by polished hooks. Standout “Forgotten Trail” sparkles brief ly with a former lover’s knowledge, and serves as a proper introduction to potentially the next star singersongwriter to rise from the local ranks. “Goin’ Down” country ‘n’ gospel roots feel punctuated by a sinner’s unrepentant sentiments. The background vocals, violins and percussion provide an excellent, eclectic prop for the lamenting “Bus Stop.” And the easy shifting of gears to deliver cool ballad “Drive On” confirms this debut LP is just the beginning of a distinguished musical journey. Overcoming first impressions may be a challenge for some listeners, but appreciation of Barbera’s songwriting craft and top-notch execution will leave a lasting impression and a desire to experienc". >> INsite Magazine "Potentially the next star singersongwriter to rise from the local ranks" >> Dana Williams - INsite Magazine
"There's not much that makes me speechless except for Joanna Barbera's voice; so uniquely sparse and lyrics compelling... You've got to check her out. She'll leave you wistfuland wanting more. This Girl's for real!" >> Dolores Park Cafe, San Francisco "What is so amazing about Joanna is that she has an incredible range in her voice along with the creative ability to write compelling lyrics." >> Amy Foell, of "Song O' the Day" Hotel Utah
Austin Sound Feature Do512 Feature
Recently, Joanna has shared the stage with: Monte Montgomery, Mindy Smith, Hamell on Trial, Melissa Ferrick, Marianne Dissard, Sharon Van Etten, Miranda Dodson, Jason Poe, The Sour Notes, Picardy III, Matt McCloskey
WWOZ New Orleans WBNY Buffalo KGSR Austin KUT Austin KOOP Austin
Summer/Fall/Winter 2011 For Support / Festivals Seeking Tour Package / One-offs Cat Power, Regina Spektor
CARNIVAL BEGINNING Release Date: Jan. 2009
Cover Art One Sheet Stage Plot Input List
Promo Photo 2 Promo Photo 3
Photographer: Shervin Lainez
TOUR HISTORY
CARNIVAL BEGINNING
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Joanna Barbera
- Vocals, Guitar
