Even minimalists have a few knick-knacks tucked away, small objects that aren’t particularly useful, but which remind us of a warm memory, time, or place. When purging or decluttering, a lazy gaze at this bric-a-brac makes us wonder if we’re being too hasty considering parting with the item. But before we harshly “Marie Kondo” these objects, it’s essential that we check to see if they “spark joy,” for if they do, we can be certain that it will always have a place in our heart and our home. We all have tchotchkes.
But is Tchotchke—the band—on your shelf yet? If you collect music with girl group vibes or female fronted bands of the ’60s and ’70s, then New York’s Tchotchke is sure to make it to your library. The band has a brand-new self-titled album out now (Tchotchke Records/ORG Music) which was produced by the D’Addario Brothers from The Lemon Twigs and was mixed at the famed Electric Lady Studios in New York City. Musically, however, the group stretches themselves beyond guitar rock’s confines and even flirts with some proggy influences along the way. This first album is familiar enough to assure quick assimilation, but repeated listenings reveal a band equipped with the tools and talent to grow into something extraordinary.
Anastasia (drums, vocals), Eva (bass, vocals), and Emily (guitar, vocals) join me on this episode to discuss the ghosts who may have visited them during the recording process, the assembly of the album, preparing for an upcoming tour with King Tuff, and what songs are on their shared band playlist. You might declutter your record collection in years to come, but when you arrive at Tchotchke’s latest record, you’ll find it hard to part with. It did, after all, provide you with fun, warm sun-drenched memories. It’s a memento of that experience. How could you let it go? It’s sure to become a part of your permanent collection of tchotchkes.
Evan Toth is a songwriter, professional musician, educator, radio host, avid record collector, and hi-fi aficionado. Toth hosts and produces The Evan Toth Show and TVD Radar on WFDU, 89.1 FM. Follow him at the usual social media places and visit his website.
