Alli Bean – Outside Voice [Interview]

Describe your sound in 3 words

Jazzy, Sassy, Honest.

Tell us a few things about your new album ‘Outside Voice’. What is the story behind it?

Outside Voice is a culmination of works created along a personal growth journey. We go through life making moves; choices aren’t always conscious. By chasing people & seeking external validation we find ourselves in dicey situations, leading us astray from what matters. When I realized I had this issue, I turned inward & began really asking myself what I was relentlessly pursuing; what did I need to let go of in order to find it? In that process, I said goodbye to a lot of habits, & ideas that got in the way. The album directly addresses those situations while letting sleeping dogs lie. I’m thankful to have found a way to split the difference.

Which song of the album reflects you the most?

Twenty Questions is an extroverted, playful tune expressing over-intense curiosity. That sums up a hefty part of my personality! Anyone who knows me closely can attest that this tune is Very Me.

What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?

Both are compelling for different reasons, absolutely, but now that I’ve spent good chunks of time doing each, I have to say I enjoy the writing part the most. It’s the solitude & quiet; the inward listening & development that does it for me. I used to think I was made to perform, & I do quite enjoy performing my music, but since diving deeply into writing & recording, it’s that piece that feels the most like home. By leaving a state of seeking, I was able to sit still in the experience & find my own heart. I wouldn’t trade that for any live gig on earth or in space.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?

The hardest part was getting back to it. I returned to music after a seven-year hiatus. I was always into music to express myself, so the frustration of not being able to do so cogently at an instrument after such a long silence was large on my mind. The feeling that I was playing catch-up was also tough to handle while working through eight years on my Jazz undergrad. I had to take my time in order to ensure I developed the skills I needed. It wore on me watching class after class graduate as I chipped away. Now that I’ve finished that part of my academic musical mission, the art itself is far less challenging. I don’t feel like I was ever away from a keyboard any more & I’m so thankful every day that I stuck it out.

In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?

I’d love for people to hear my music & feel confident that they can lay their own boundaries & function in a manner that is best for them first & foremost. Get out of hot pursuit & find what you need in absence of the noise.

What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?

There’s never any trouble if you never get busted. 😉

Thank you!

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