Members
Select a Tarnation band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Tarnation is an American musical group rooted in the genres of slowcore and alt-country, originally formed in San Francisco in 1992. The group serves as a creative outlet for Paula Frazer, a multifaceted singer and songwriter who infuses her roots music background with a haunting, countrified edge. Initially joined by Lincoln Allen (bass), Michelle Cernuto (guitar), and Matt Sullivan (steel guitar), Tarnation became known for their melancholic soundscapes and ethereal vocal delivery. The band's music is characterized by its blend of country influences with a post-punk sensibility, forging a unique path in the alternative music scene.
How to Sound Like Tarnation
To capture Tarnation's sound, musicians should focus on crafting melancholic and spacious sonic landscapes. Their music often features rich, reverb-drenched vocals and guitar lines that gracefully weave through ambient textures. Utilizing steel guitars and analog delay effects can add a layer of depth and wistfulness, while a minimalistic drum approach maintains a gentle, yet steady rhythm. Emphasizing dynamic contrasts and subtle instrumentation will help recreate their distinctive blend of slowcore and alt-country. The overall tone should evoke a sense of introspection and emotional resonance, achieved through careful layering and thoughtful production techniques.
