SHOW PREVIEW: 9:30 presents Tei Shi at U Street Music Hall
Tei Shi appropriately refers to her ethereal bedroom pop as “mermaid music.” She layers her airy voice using loops to create a wave-like effect. Born Valerie Teicher, Tei Shi came to prominence when “Bassically,” from 2015’s Verde EP, created buzz on music blogs.
Teicher since released her debut full-length album, Crawl Space, which came out this March. Interspersed with cassette recordings from her childhood, the album is deeply personal and shows her growth as a songwriter and artist.
In “bad singer,” a young Teicher says, “I’m a bad singer. I can’t do anything well.” In the following track, “Say You Do,” an ‘80s-inspired synth ballad, she showcases her impressive range and disproves her younger self’s insecurities.
The title Crawl Space was inspired by Teicher facing her fear of the dark as a child by going into her home’s crawl space. On Crawl Space, she again confronts her fears and insecurities, returning stronger and bolder than ever.
Get tickets here to see Tei Shi at U Street Music Hall.