Paula Frazer, American singer-songwriter and guitarist

Paula Frazer is an American singer-songwriter whose evocative music has carved a distinctive niche in the contemporary folk and alternative scenes. Her journey began in the American South, where she spent her formative years across Georgia and Arkansas, soaking in the cultural landscapes of both states. In 1981, she made a significant move to San Francisco, California, a vibrant city that would become the primary backdrop for much of her artistic exploration and musical development.

Musical Style and Evolution

Frazer's musical signature is frequently characterized as melancholic alternative country, a genre that blends the introspective storytelling of country music with the often raw and emotional edge of alternative rock. However, her sound is far from confined to a single category, weaving together an eclectic tapestry of influences that includes the heartfelt narratives of folk, the soulful depths of blues, and the melodic hooks of pop, among other diverse genres. This unique amalgamation results in a rich, complex sound that is unmistakably her own, resonating with a profound sense of introspection and longing.

Her ascent into wider public recognition truly began in the 1990s as the compelling frontwoman of the band Tarnation. Yet, Frazer's musical roots in San Francisco ran deeper; prior to forming Tarnation, she was an active and integral presence in the city's bustling local scene, lending her talents to numerous bands such as Cloiter, Virginia Dare, the pioneering punk act Frightwig, Trial, and Pleasant Day. These early experiences undoubtedly shaped her versatile performance style and collaborative spirit.

The Tarnation Era and Beyond

The initial incarnation of Tarnation, often referred to as Tarnation MK1, notably featured Brandan Kearney, the owner of San Francisco's independent NufSed label. While Kearney's tenure in the band was brief, his influence proved pivotal, as he provided Frazer with the crucial opportunity to release Tarnation's debut album. That foundational record, titled I'll Give You Something To Cry About, first appeared in a limited edition of just 1,000 copies, underscoring its independent and grassroots origins. Its raw, authentic sound quickly garnered attention, leading to a significant development in 1995 when the esteemed independent label 4AD re-released several tracks from the debut alongside new material on the acclaimed album Gentle Creatures. This album also benefited from the production insights of Warn Defever, a notable figure known for his work with His Name Is Alive. Tarnation continued its creative trajectory, releasing Mirador in 1997, further solidifying their unique sound and artistic vision.

A significant shift occurred in 1998 when Frazer made the decision to step away from the Tarnation moniker, choosing instead to continue her musical journey as a solo artist. This transition allowed her to explore new creative avenues and express her personal artistry under her own name. However, the legacy of Tarnation proved enduring, and in 2006, Frazer thoughtfully revived the band's name. This revival culminated in the release of her seventh record, Now It's Time, in March 2007, which was credited as Paula Frazer and Tarnation, a testament to the seamless blending of her solo identity with the band's rich history and enduring appeal.

Collaborations and Other Artistic Pursuits

Throughout her illustrious career, Paula Frazer has been a sought-after collaborator, contributing her distinctive vocals and musical sensibilities to a diverse array of recordings and live performances. Her extensive list of collaborations includes work with eclectic artists and bands such as the indie pop outfit Cornershop, the pioneering punk and riot grrrl band Frightwig, the evocative and darkly romantic Tindersticks, the indie rock darlings the Czars, and even contributing to projects with Sean Lennon and the hip-hop collective Handsome Boy Modeling School. These collaborations highlight her versatility and respected standing within the music community.

Beyond her profound contributions to music, Paula Frazer is also a skilled professional weaver, showcasing another facet of her creative talent and artistic dedication. Intriguingly, she also had a fleeting, yet notable, stint as a temporary vocalist for the legendary funk metal band Faith No More sometime between 1983 and 1984. During that nascent period, Faith No More primarily performed live shows and frequently invited new individuals to step in as vocalists, a testament to their early, fluid lineup as they honed their groundbreaking sound. The band's bassist, Billy Gould, has reportedly claimed to possess recorded material from all the shows played during that formative era, offering a rare glimpse into Frazer's brief, yet interesting, contribution to their early history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What genre of music is Paula Frazer primarily known for?
Paula Frazer's music is most frequently described as melancholic alternative country, though it incorporates an eclectic mix of folk, blues, and pop elements, creating a unique and introspective sound.
When did Paula Frazer begin her professional music career?
Paula Frazer began gaining wider recognition in the 1990s as the frontwoman of the band Tarnation, though she was active in the San Francisco music scene with various bands since moving there in 1981.
What was Tarnation's debut album called?
Tarnation's debut album was titled I'll Give You Something To Cry About, initially released independently in a limited edition.
Has Paula Frazer collaborated with other notable artists?
Yes, she has collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Cornershop, Sean Lennon, Frightwig, Tindersticks, the Czars, and Handsome Boy Modeling School, among others.
Is Paula Frazer involved in any other professions besides music?
Yes, in addition to her music career, Paula Frazer is also a professional weaver.
Was Paula Frazer ever a member of Faith No More?
She was a temporary vocalist for Faith No More sometime between 1983 and 1984, during a period when the band's lineup was fluid and they primarily played live shows, often inviting new singers to perform.