Tegan and Sara

by Amy Yvonne Simpson

As we all know, for women, the music scene can be a rough place to catch a break if you're new, quirky, indie or seeking individuality away from the mainstream acts being pumped out nowadays. Tegan and Sara, however, seem to be doing just fine.

Having been around since 1999 these Canadian twins just seem to be getting better and better. Born 19 September 1980 as Tegan Rain Quin and Sara Keirsten Quin in Calgary, Alberta, these feisty girls have taken the music world by storm.

Not many bands can boast six albums over an eleven year period, plus the fact that they are still touring. Supporting such artists such as Paramore, New Found Glory, Weezer, Ben Folds, The Killers and Death Cab for Cutie, it is no wonder as to why they are becoming ever increasingly popular.

Their voices blend wonderfully, creating perfect harmonics to songs with real meaning. Since their first album Under Feet Like Ours, it is evident that they have both progressed as artists. Their songs bring a real freshness to an industry renowned for its staleness and repetitiveness. They are clearly not another manufactured product.

What also brings originality to their live performances is their witty banter and humorous anecdotes between songs. Their engagement with their listeners is again, not something that all bands can claim. They also cater for all tastes and ages, whether it's something mellow and acoustic you're looking for, or something with a bit more of a beat, Tegan and Sara can certainly provide.

With strong bass lines and a great use of keyboards this band generates a whole unique sound. Their most recent album Sainthood, released in 2009, is most definitely an album worth investing in. It's seriously better than cake, and that's saying a lot, as we all know how much I love cake. With songs called Hell, Alligator, Red Belt and Arrow, you are in for a real treat. Trust me, would I lie to you?

If these guys have grabbed your interest, then check out Tegan and Sara at www.teganandsara.com, or just like them on Facebook/Twitter/Myspace. You all know how the internet works by now. If you really like them, then head on over to some of these similar artists and see if they float your boat; An Horse; The Clicks, Uh Huh Her and Rachael Cantu.

I cannot promise if they are touring the UK next year as they played Glastonbury this summer, however, if you're lucky to be in the New Zealand/Australia area in the next few weeks you will kick yourself if you don't get to one of their shows.

Tegan and Sara are definitely a band worth watching. Their lyrics have real depth and meaning. We can expect a lot more of these ladies in the years to come, and I, along with every other fan, eagerly await what their future albums bring.

See more female-friendly music on Mookychick