An intriguing blend of jazzy folk with elements of her native Assyria, Tenise Marie’s debut album contains a rich diversity, with superb vocals.
~ Courtesy of Nice Marmot PR
Tenise Marie has released the title track off of her upcoming album Off The Record – inspired by her travels to the Assyrian homeland in Iraq, and speaks to the complexity of embracing one’s true self, shedding the desire for perfection, and accepting the messiness of life. Listen to the track HERE.
Tenise describes the song as a reflection of her emotional disposition, spiritual journey, and romantic nature—highlighting her tendency to sugarcoat her experiences or appear strong in the face of challenges. Through this album, Tenise continues to share her journey, weaving emotional depth and self-discovery into her music, while navigating love, heartbreak, and personal growth.
A true storyteller and adventurer, Tenise Marie’s music reflects her curiosity and connection to the world. Her songs evoke a sense of folky nostalgia and romance, blending jazzy folk-pop ambience with confessional lyrics that explore the highs and lows of life. With roots in strong female singer-songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, she’s drawn to the soulful depths of R&B, Gospel, Jazz, and recently, the sounds of her Middle Eastern heritage. This eclectic blend shines through in her music, driven by lyrics that encourage listeners to reflect on their humanity. Tenise’s soulful vocals paired with acoustic guitar, piano, and oud create a sound that fuses Western and Eastern folk elements, mirroring her mixed European and Assyrian background.
Tenise Marie has provided some additional background on the creation of her debut recording:
The goal behind this album was to honour all of the pieces of the mosaic I am.
I endeavored to embrace all of my duality: of my heritage, of my experiences, of my nature and my nurture.
The cultures in my blood: Assyrian, French, British.
The cultures I grew up with: the western folk music and quaker traditions of Argenta. I may be a citizen of the world, but I will always be a daughter of the mountains.
