Sydney Wayser - Band Reviews and Interviews by The Deli

Whimsical and playful, with a touch of angst and a heavy dose of emotion, Sydney Wayser’s music sings like lullabies throughout the contemporary folk scene of New York City. The young singer-songwriter’s sweet, engaging voice can be likened to Feist or Regina Spektor’s, filling up songs that seem reminiscent of a sunny day in Paris. Her second full-length album, The Colorful, is a lush mix of melodies and chords that intricately tell stories of her youth and experience. Sydney will be performing at several CMJ showcases at NYC venues this year, including Fat Baby, The Knitting Factory, Otto’s and Bar Matchless. Make sure to check the CMJ schedule for details.

In what ways would you say your French heritage has played a role in your songwriting and music development?
First off I was exposed to many French artists while growing up (one of my favorites being Serge Gainsbourg) and feel that their influence shows up in my writing whether or not I am aware of it. I was also exposed to the art scene in France at a very young age and now I find inspiration in many departed Parisian-based writers and painters, one of my favorites being Modigliani. I feel at home in Paris and am very lucky to have grown up with access to a place that is so magical.

If you could master another instrument besides piano, what would it be?
Easy, it would be the cello. I dabbled in it for a while but never fully committed. It is next on my list for sure.

How do European audiences differ from American audiences?
European audiences (especially French ones) are very quiet and respectful. They also always want at least 2 encores!!

What songwriter, passed or still living, would you live to have a writing session with?
Jeff Buckley, Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, Rufus Wainwright. Ah so many, I can't just listone...

"Oh the Places You'll Go" on The Colorful album... any relation to the Dr. Seuss story?
I wrote it about life, reincarnationand the journey it takes us on. When it was time to come up with a title I glanced down at my collection of Dr. Seuss and opened up to "oh the places you go" and it instantly felt right. It is my ode to the great writer I guess, although it didn't initially start out that way, it just fell into place.