Getting Sassy with...Jesca Hoop

We here around the culture of me were once obsessed with all things relating to Sassy and Dirt magazines.  And while those titles are long gone, the sentiment of how they covered the culture industries has indeed left its mark on writers and culture vultures everywhere.  It is because of that influence that we are proud to present our features post, "Getting Sassy with...", wherein we bring you that much closer to your favorite bands by way of a simple Q&A session that's both painless and informative.  Ha!  Beat that, FOX News!

This time: Jesca Hoop.

Southern California is certainly not the first place one would think of when listening to the latest LP from the Golden State's resident chameleon, Jesca Hoop.  But, then again, she doesn't think so either.  Brought up a Mormon but soon leaving the faith, settling in various locales in the frontier West, working as a nanny for Tom Waits' kin.  All these things make her debut record, Kismet, which just so happens to be filled with the entirety of musical expression from the 20th century, somehow make a little more sense.  Not that it would help all that much.

There's a sense or naivete and wonder, albeit mixed with dark swells and bottomless feelings of lovelorn.  We've likened it to the first time we heard any of BJork's first records or finding solace in a broken heart with Tori Amos.  With Kismet, Hoop has done something on her debut that the culture of me did NOT see coming: she made a record that's both deeply affecting and thoroughly enjoyable.

Here we ask her about some of the smallest details of her life, all the while accepting that, this being Jesca Hoop, the answers chip nothing away of her mystery.

First album bought on your own?
The Beatles, Revolver.

Favorite book ever?
"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe"

Favorite hometown haunt?
Secret hot springs.

Least favorite day job before getting this gig?
I didn't have one.

If you didn't play music, what would you be doing?
Personal chef.

Favorite thing you bought this year?
A new guitar.

Last illegally downloaded song/album (be honest)?
Never done it. I swear.

The one record you'd save from a house fire?
I won't be choosing I'm going to keep them all in a box. Easy to carry.

Latest TV addictions?
"Lost".

Please list your dream band (must be living musicians).
The one I have.

Best concert you attended this year?
The Polyphonic Spree.

Recent song you can't get out of your head?
"Out The Back Door", Jesca Hoop.

(mp3)    Enemy, from the Kismet LP

Godspeed!