Dejha Colantuono, Shawn Smith and  DJ Vaneetz    Sunset Tavern 7/28/09     $7

Maybe you are familiar with Dejha Colantuono’s previous projects: The Rotten Apples, The Pin-Ups, and Ragazza. It’s been a bit since we’ve heard much from her but I’m happy to report that with Tea & Vodka, Dejha’s first solo effort, she is back and does not disappoint. Dejha has returned to Seattle to premier her new album on Tuesday 7/28 at the Sunset Tavern and she’s bringing some heavy-hitting friends along for the ride. Tea & Vodka itself features production from Minus the Bear and Mastadon’s Matt Bayles and session musicians who’ve worked with such artists as, Fiona Apple and Tori Amos. Dejha‘s solo work shows a refined, more grown up approach than her work with The Rotten Apples, but it retains that unique rock-sensuality that Seattle fans and fellow musicians fell in love with. Each track on Tea & Vodka plays host to Dejha’s many varied strengths. From sultry and emotionally driven to all out rock goddess. Whether being played quietly in the background, or with the dial pegged at 10– Dejha‘s Tea & Vodka once again proves her spot as one of indie-rock’s greatest voices is not without merit.

Dejha’s performances have always been raw and energetic; I look forward to seeing the new material in a live setting. Between rousing rock-filled tracks there are some effusive little gems that really show Dejha’s skill as a songwriter.  Joining Dejha on the intimate Sunset Tavern stage will be Jason Finn of Presidents of the United States of America (drums) and Kimberly Morrison of The Duchess and the Duke (backing vocals).

While this isn’t something off the new album, it does reflect Dejha’s pop-rock vocals: Love Career by The Rotten Apples

Dejha Colantuono on MySpace