Metropolitan Muse: Julia Adamy

There aren't a lot of girls hanging around the jazz department of University of North Texas (believe me), so the women in the program tend to stand out on their own and sharpen their musical chops. Julia Adamy is one such lady, currently making waves playing bass for Andrew Tinker's band. They'll be heading to Austin September 30 to vie for a spot on Dell's Sound and Jury stage at Austin City Limits. We took a few minutes out of Julia's busy schedule to get to know one of the hippest chicks in Little D.

What possessed you to first pick up the bass? How long have you been playing?
I've been playing bass for 7 years. My dad is a professional bassist in NYC and he completely inspired me. I played violin at first, but was getting bored with it. He plays Mamma Mia! on Broadway and one day I went to sit in the pit. Seeing him play so close to me was amazing. I watched every move he made and decided bass was the coolest thing ever. That night I made him teach me "Dancing Queen," ha! I actually got to sub for him this past summer for two weeks, so it was really cool to come full circle.

Do you write music as well?
I've written a few tunes, not much though. It's always been something I've wanted to do more. I will eventually. Playing improvised music is like writing, so that holds me over for the time being.

Who are your top five musical influences?
My dad: He always has and always will be the musician I love most. I've been listening to his music since I was born.
Lionel Loueke: He is an amazing guitarist from Benin, West Africa. He has the most original sound for a jazz musician I have heard, his phrasing and melodies are beautiful. I could listen to him forever.
Pino Palladino: great bass player and has the best groove and feel. He has had all of my dream gigs -- John Mayer and D'angelo!
Esperanza Spalding: awesome female bassist and singer. She's an amazing musician and looks totally hot playing the bass -- gotta love that!
Stevie Wonder: I have loved his music since I was little. So soulful and his writing is just perfect.

What's your secret to holding your own in the boys club?
I never thought I had a secret, but being confident really helps, and knowing that not many girls do what you do makes it extra special. And, take advantage of all that extra attention.

Favorite local bands?
I've always loved Snarky Puppy, Oso Closo rocks, New Vintage. I need to branch outside of the music school people. It's such a close knit community that they are who I usually end up listening to.

Who's on your dream jam roster?
I've always wanted to play with John Mayer and Lionel Loueke (guitar), Questlove and Steve Jordin (drums), Amhad Jamal and Herbie Hancock (keys), and Stevie Wonder on anything!
http://www.pegasusnews.com/news/2009/sep/26/metropolitan-muse-julia-adamy/
Photo: Tanner Ellison