Interview with Lynette Zanesso, Lead Artist of Bestial Mouths

In this engaging interview, Lynette Zanesso of Bestial Mouths shares her unique musical journey, delving into the inspirations behind their sound and the significance of their name. Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of tribal influences and the creative process that defines Bestial Mouths.

Table of Contents

• Could you introduce yourself?
• Where did you get the name ‘Bestial Mouths’?
• What influences the tribal elements in your music?
• Can you tell us about your unique vocal style?
• Who else is in the band?
• How do you collaborate on writing and music production?
• What was it like performing with Psychic TV?
• How did your upbringing influence your music?
• What challenges have you faced in sustaining your music career?
• How do you feel about streaming services and their impact?
• How did you get discovered on TikTok?
• Can you explain the concept behind your new album ‘Rott’?
• What can you tell us about your song ‘Mine Tiar’?
• How do you approach the visuals and music videos for your songs?
• What are your plans for upcoming tours and performances?
• What new releases can fans expect soon?
• How do you balance your music career with personal life?
• Is there anything else you’d like to share?
• Where can fans find your music and merchandise?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Could you introduce yourself?

Hello, I am Lynette Zanesso of Bestial Mouths. My journey in music has been a blend of various influences, and I’m excited to share that with you.

Where did you get the name ‘Bestial Mouths’?

The name actually comes from a song. It’s part of a lyric from our very first band that I ever did called Afghan Grace. The line was, “be still M singing to drag in the winter,” and I just really liked it. So we carried it over for this one. A lot of my stuff has elements that carry over because it’s about a journey of process.

What influences the tribal elements in your music?

I really connect with my ancestry, being Puerto Rican with a lot of Taíno Indian heritage. Growing up, the type of music my parents listened to influenced me greatly. We always had parties with musicians, and there would be percussion, which everyone would join in on. I’ve been really into tribal and folk singers and the way they express emotions through their voice and music. The tribal element is like a chant that we can all join in on, and I love that aspect of it.

Can you tell us about your unique vocal style?

I’m not a classically trained singer, and I didn’t grow up singing. For me, the voice is an instrument. I’ve always tried different things with it to capture various sounds that represent words or emotions. Artists like Lydia Lunch and Diamanda Galás have influenced my style. I also draw inspiration from the Cocteau Twins, as they often use sounds rather than words, which is something I resonate with as well.

Who else is in the band?

At the moment, it’s just me, Lynette, from the very beginning. Branch Showers and Dayon have been part of it for about six or seven years, working behind the scenes on production. For our latest release, we collaborated with Ree from Frontline Assembly, who did a lot of the major production. We also have elements from our past with Matthew Tucker contributing as well. For live performances, I work with different musicians to recreate the sound on stage.

How do you collaborate on writing and music production?

I write all the lyrics, but for the music, I consider myself more the inspirational part of the process. We all work together to create the feeling for each song. I express the emotions I want to convey, and we throw ideas back and forth. It’s a collaborative effort that allows everyone to contribute their unique touch.

What was it like performing with Psychic TV?

Performing with Psychic TV was quite an honour and a fun story. It was Genesis P-Orridge’s birthday the day we played, which made it even more special. The show was at the Echoplex in LA, and to get to the green room, you had to take a long route or jump over the stage. During our performance, I looked up and saw Genesis on stage, and I thought, “Oh my God, he hates us!” but he was just taking a shortcut. It was a nerve-wracking but exhilarating experience. This was one of the biggest shows for us at that time, and I was definitely nervous about it. I remember thinking about how I had seen him perform 30 years ago at a Siouxsie and the Banshees concert. It was surreal to share the stage with someone I had admired for so long.

How did your upbringing influence your music?

My upbringing had a profound impact on my music. Growing up in a Puerto Rican household with a strong Taíno Indian heritage, I was immersed in a rich cultural background. My parents played traditional music, and we often had gatherings with musicians, which instilled in me a love for rhythm and communal expression. This environment shaped my understanding of music as a form of storytelling, a way to connect with others on a deeper level.

What challenges have you faced in sustaining your music career?

Sustaining a music career is fraught with challenges. The financial aspect is particularly tough; most artists struggle to make a living solely from music. It’s almost like you have to do it for the love of it, otherwise, it can be incredibly disheartening. I’ve faced difficulties in maintaining a balance between creating art and the financial pressures that come with it. It can be exhausting, both mentally and emotionally, but the catharsis I find in performing keeps me going.

How do you feel about streaming services and their impact?

Streaming services have changed the landscape of music distribution, but not necessarily for the better when it comes to compensation. They do help get music out to a wider audience, which is invaluable, but the financial return is minimal. The only ones profiting from these platforms are the companies that run them. It’s frustrating because while I want my music to reach people, I also need to consider the sustainability of my career.

How did you get discovered on TikTok?

It was quite serendipitous, really. I remember being shocked to learn that I was discovered on TikTok. It was an unexpected platform for my music to resonate with people. The moment someone mentioned they heard my music there and reached out, I felt a wave of gratitude. It’s incredible how social media can connect artists with audiences in unexpected ways, and TikTok has been a significant part of that for me.

Can you explain the concept behind your new album ‘Rott’?

‘Rott’ stands for “Road of a Thousand Tears,” which is actually the title of the final track on the album. The album intertwines personal narratives with broader themes, including historical references to the Trail of Tears. It reflects my journey and the emotional weight I carry, expressed through a blend of atmospheric sounds and lyrical storytelling. Each track is a piece of that journey, exploring both the pain and beauty of life.

What can you tell us about your song ‘Mine Tiar’?

‘Mine Tiar’ was initially intended to be an atmospheric piece, but it has resonated deeply with listeners, becoming one of their favourites. The song incorporates elements of Native American chanting, which I’ve always admired for its emotional depth and cultural significance. It’s a tribute to the strength and pride of indigenous peoples, and I aimed to capture that spirit in the music. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, which is gratifying.

How do you approach the visuals and music videos for your songs?

When it comes to visuals, my approach varies from song to song. For some tracks, I have a clear vision of what I want to convey, while for others, I collaborate closely with directors and photographers to create a shared vision. For instance, the video for ‘Road of a Thousand Tiar’ was a collaborative effort with my choreographer, where we aimed for a surrealist aesthetic reminiscent of silent films. It’s fascinating to see how others interpret my music visually, and I always encourage that creative dialogue.

What are your plans for upcoming tours and performances?

We’re gearing up for an exciting US tour in October and November, starting in Sacramento. We have some fantastic festivals lined up, including Substance in LA and Sanctum Dracula’s Ball. It’s thrilling to expand our reach into Canada, with shows planned in Montreal and Toronto. The anticipation for these performances is palpable, and I can’t wait to connect with our fans live.

What new releases can fans expect soon?

Fans can look forward to a new video for the song “The Knife” from our latest album. This will be accompanied by a remix from Curses. Additionally, we’re preparing a full remix LP that should be out in about two months. I’m also involved in several collaborations throughout the year, where I contribute vocals and lyrics, so there’s plenty of new music coming their way.

How do you balance your music career with personal life?

Balancing a music career and personal life is definitely a challenge. With two puppies at home, life can get hectic. I love spending time with them, but it requires planning to ensure I have time for my music and personal commitments. I try to maintain a routine that allows me to rest when I’m not on tour, as touring can be exhausting. It’s all about finding that equilibrium and making sure I’m happy and healthy.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I’m thrilled to announce that we’re working on a new candle for Bestial Mouths as part of our merchandise. Collaborating with a friend from Los Angeles, we’re crafting a unique scent that resonates with our brand. Additionally, I have a passion for making jewelry from recycled materials, which I plan to start selling online soon. This project reflects my commitment to sustainability and creativity.

Where can fans find your music and merchandise?

Fans can find our music on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp. For merchandise, including our upcoming candles and jewelry, keep an eye on our official website and social media channels. We love connecting with our fans, so following us online is a great way to stay updated on new releases and exclusive items.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What genres does Bestial Mouths explore? Our music blends elements of tribal, industrial, and experimental sounds, creating a unique auditory experience.
• How can I support Bestial Mouths? The best way to support us is by streaming our music, attending our shows, and purchasing merchandise. Every bit helps keep our creative journey alive.
• Are there any upcoming collaborations? Yes, I frequently collaborate with other artists, and there are several exciting projects in the pipeline.