I can’t believe
And I don’t know why
I can’t believe
I let the time pass by…
I’ve tried so hard
But what can I do
When I can’t believe
In the love I have for you
From “The Love I Have for You” by Miss Tess & The Talkbacks

WHO: Miss Tess & the Talkbacks, formerly Miss Tess & the Bon Ton Parade, play a rare mix of jazz-infused old-time country, swing and rockabilly. Influenced by Ella Fitzgerald and the stylistic range of artists like Bonnie Raitt and Tom Waits, Miss Tess writes Americana originals and makes fresh arrangements of some older tunes.

The band’s latest EP, The Love I Have for You, includes one original and six covers saluting some of Tess’s favorite songwriters: Ted Hawkins (“Sorry You’re Sick”), Randy Newman (“Bet No One Ever Hurt This Bad”), Hank Williams (“The Alabama Waltz”), Neil Young (“Hold Back the Tears”), Bonnie Raitt (“Give It Up or Let Me Go”) and Willie Nelson on the lovely “Night Life,” on which Miss Tess conjures Patsy Cline.

“Each artist we covered has held a special place in the history of our lives as well as in the history of American music,” said Miss Tess. “These folks are all musical giants who dedicated their lives to music and, for that, I hold them in the highest esteem.”

The title track to the group’s second release on rootsy label Signature Sounds is an original with a 1950’s R&B sound further proving the band’s versatility. And the fitting cover art depicts a vintage carrying case for 45 rpm records.

WHAT: The Brooklyn-based chanteuse with the powerful voice will be celebrating the release of The Love I Have for You when she performs with her Talkbacks at Joe’s Pub with special guests Michaela Anne and Kristin Andreasson.

WHERE: Joe’s Pub on 425 Lafayette Street in NYC.

WHEN: Wednesday, December 11th. Show starts at 7 pm.

For more info: joespub.com and misstessmusic.com