Violents & Monica Martin: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Bob Boilen | June 5, 2017 - The last time we saw singer Monica Martin at the Tiny Desk she was singing with Phox, her folky, poppy band based in Madison, Wisconsin. But, while that band is on hiatus, Martin took time to walk into the world of Violents, the project of pianist, string arranger and songwriter Jeremy Larson. Larson and Martin make a lovely pair and have created a subtle, soulful record - Awake And Pretty Much Sober - that benefits greatly from Laron's classical training.
It's the first full-length Jeremy Larson has released as Violents, a project that, generally, sees him joined by a different singer each outing, resulting in an EP. Clearly there was a chemistry driving these sessions, inspiring and stretching the two artists into creating a full-sized work.
Here at the Tiny Desk they performed with the string quartet Rootstock Republic, which they only had met earlier in the week. In fact, this was filmed during the first week Violents had ever performed live! It's a special collaboration you shouldn't miss - actually I almost did, running from a late train, coming from New York. If Stephen Thompson had not stopped the band to wait just a few minutes I'd have missed this rare treat. Enjoy.
Awake And Pretty Much Sober is available now:
iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/album/awa...
Amazon: www.amazon.com/Awake-Pretty-V...
Set List
"Equal Powers"
"Unraveling"
"Spark"
Musicians
Jeremy Larson (piano); Monica Marten (vocals); Juliette Jones (violin); Jessica McJunkins (violin); Kristine Kruta (cello); Jarvis Benson (viola)
Credits
Producers: Bob Boilen, Niki Walker; Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Bronson Arcuri, Colin Marshall; Photo: Claire Harbage/NPR.
For more Tiny Desk concerts, subscribe to our podcast: www.npr.org/podcasts/510292/ti...

[@chasepritchett333]

I want to hug her voice.

[@dao694]

:o)

[@lordwint42069]

love you

[@tomstorm255]

Young Leslie Knope killing the cello!

[@Gigi-hy9th]

Just wanted to say I listen to this Tiny Desk very regularly, it is one of my absolute favorites ❤️❤️

[@jacobkirch9652]

Just wanted to comment for those interested in the quartet. Their name is Rootstock Republic and they agreed to play with Violents and Monica Martin for this session only. They are separate groups with amazing talent and equally busy schedules.

[@f9nineteen]

imo sad they're not on Spotify :(

[@natalieyoung9995]

Jacob Kirch where can I find Rootstock republic? Do they still play?

[@wpbdog1625]

@IyaEarthseeds I understood him perfectly! 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@rtthomas3667]

Beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

[@laurasantacruz7994]

To be honest, I much prefer this live version over the album recordings. The live performance has this magic that puts me in a trance and has had me rewatch this video over 10 times. So lovely.

[@popcornisfromcorn]

agreed. both are good in their own ways 2

[@laurasantacruz7994]

popcornisfromcorn popcornisfromcorn yeah, totally. The production on the songs are very modern and creative. I guess I'm partial to hearing Monica perform live :3

[@mattguest6326]

Honestly, I feel that way about quite a few songs that I heard first on Tiny Desk Concert.

[@Mdjagg]

Gotta give credit to the engineers who make this sound better than a studio album

[@fireyflower6643]

Me too, just stunning

[@allofthemmilkingwithgreenf7493]

They are a perfect fucking match! Didn't expect this to be as gorgeous and moving as it is. Made my day, kinda. That's NPRs speciality, I guess: Making days.

[@Violents]

thank you

[@indieshuffle]

:,)

[@garytucker3563]

@LuthienMoonLight: A perfect description of how I felt when I first heard this about the same time you did, since then this is my go to song for believing in love......and liquor LMAO!

[@swatson108]

all of them milking with green fleshy flowers Pretty much!

[@dlopez1377]

you ever listen to something so beautiful it changes your life

[@GuerillaXV]

This album is currently helping me through a break-up. Really helping me readjust my mindset and Monica is gorgeous.

[@lmnopotay7433]

Their music is so good it could put me to sleep, but in a good way. It's mellow, nice and soothing. Monica and tha strings are AWESOME. And tha piano guy.

[@Mdjagg]

Tigran Hamasyan...

[@michaelkariuki8853]

Her voice sounds like glass. So delicate and brittle... I'm amazed. Thank you NPR Music.

[@Gassyyetclassy]

Michael Kariuki You should look up the Phox Tiny Desk and hear her sing a different genre! You'll enjoy it.

[@michaelkariuki8853]

She's so talented.

[@Gassyyetclassy]

Michael Kariuki Indeed! I watched an interview of hers where she explained how she initially didn't have much confidence in her vocals, as they are really unique. I'm glad she took the route she did, sharing her amazing talent!

[@markmartinez3578]

Michael Kariuki y'all needs to check out the record as a whole. It's 🔥🔥🔥

[@chaseadams347]

I like how she sings so well and yet is so timid about talking.

[@nabeshin345]

When PHOX went on hiatus I was nervous we'd never get to hear Monica Martin again. Thankful for this project and hopefully some more solo releases one day. Love her voice

[@sharpielol]

Yes, I completely agree! I miss PHOX! ❤️

[@LisaTCanada]

Watch her collaborations with Scary Pockets: mesmerizing.

[@adambrown2564]

This is a 5 year late reply to tell you I saw Monica Martin open for Nickel Creek the other night, she performed some solo stuff she’s recording now to come out early next year - she was incredible!!! Hadn’t ever heard of her but going back now and listening to all her stuff.

[@nayabello6747]

Monica, that voice and those curls are giving me LIFEEE!

[@JayCeeGee]

She has a very unique voice. It's beautiful. It's not hard to respect great music like this, regardless of musical preference. These are a talented group of individuals.

[@Alambir1]

Just got back from a long graveyard shift, listening to this whilst falling asleep is blissful.

[@Gassyyetclassy]

Monica will always have one of the most unique voices!!!! Simply beautiful.

[@TheStranger513]

Adriana Auten Monica of the 90s. Yes I agree

[@LowGMan]

Props to the violins, they add so much to this. Especially the first song, so cinematic worthy...

[@squeakyice-cream441]

Don't forget the viola and the cello ;)

[@DazzaDirect]

@@squeakyice-cream441 ;-] true;-] , 2nd song is magical ;-]

[@TrillyThough]

No doubt

[@venust]

Her performance in Phox on Tiny Desk made me go see her live in Los Angeles, and now this metamorphosis on a Monday, is truly special!

[@linzeeb4]

Venus Thomas I was thinking she looked like the girl from phox!

[@Peighter]

I have to say that i don't care what NPR upload's, as long is it's tiny desk. i know it's going to be great

[@ashleyhw4388]

Beautiful tone, Monica. The instruments added such warmth and color.

[@GITSVermeer]

Yes. Amen to that. And the Tiny Desk versions of songs are mostly better than the originals.

[@mmmk1616]

I would have to agree :)

[@BenBopALula]

Keffin Hauser : Tiny Desk versions sound more authentic and genuine, but mostly because the artists invited are always so talented !

[@ChristThroughTheLens]

They sound so raw and true because its basically just a live raw un edited version. It is in simplest form just them. Thats their true sound, just beautiful. This makes me want to pick my flute back up after seeing some of theese tiny dest concerts

[@stevehackenberg]

What would we do without Tiny Desk Concerts? Wonderful!

[@Milsj81]

😍😍😍 her voice, the band. Done.

[@vivik972]

oooooh thats pure beauty!!! beautiful group and energy. And Monica girl you're gorgeous and your curlsssss were on thaaaat level !!! 😍

[@andrewp1308]

30 minutes ago I'd never heard of Monica Martin or Phox. Fast forward 2 NPR Tiny Desks and I might just be in love

[@joseephiiinee]

"Everything unique in me was everything you said would need some shaping, or sorting out" damn...

[@lordwint42069]

right!!!?

[@crystalcollier7326]

Absolutely beautiful, Monica has such a sweet and lovely voice!

[@madisonchapman7050]

Why is it every time I watch Tiny desk, my eyes are closed, my ears are open and my body is in sway. So much for video, and I say that with the utmost respect for the form. :P Stand out performance

[@wayawuffin]

wow what a bunch of great looking talented people

[@demetrymalahoff]

Monicas pants are so so nice! Amongst everything else obviously.

[@shadley95]

I've been missing Monica and Phox so much! So happy to have this project while Phox is on hold.

[@hannahmoorehughes]

i love her work in PHOX, i'm so happy to hear her here! and this musical style is wonderfully suited to her voice. it's obvious everyone in this group is INSANELY talented.

[@weirdchick216]

I love Monica Martin's voice. Everyone here put on such a beautiful performance.

[@JuaniqueVerde]

WOW. JUST WOW! This was BEAUTIFUL!!!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 and Rootstock Republic... 😩😩😩😍😍😍 ALLLLL of this was just SO BEAUTIFUL!!! Thank you!

[@brendatran4049]

The Tiny Desk series is how I find such phenomenal music, always something I look forward to

[@fireyflower6643]

Brenda Tran I love that you get introduced to amazing singers/bands that yve never heard of before, and at the same time big names come too that youd never expect to see at such a small paired down venue

[@capt.morgan8975]

Tiny desk thank you for show casing art. Thank you

[@christinad4799]

whoa. blown away. love the violents project:)

[@alanmichaeldill]

Vulfpeck took me here.

[@kimberlyspina1793]

Me too!

[@teremertz]

Alan Dill she also did an epic cover with scary pockets fyi 🍒

[@stellajung3466]

Yes!

[@joshualister7959]

me 4

[@hilduso]

Same, always reliable

[@SRFairbanks9]

We just drove through Baraboo yesterday, on our way back to Ohio from Minnesota. Thought of Monica and the boys from Phox. Hoping to inadvertently pass them on the highway. lol. I can't wait for them to get back together 🤞. The reason she sounds so great with violents and the others is because she would fit in anywhere. She has that kind of talent. The creativity in Phox was phenomenal! Monica made that great band, incredible!! Thanks for that. Monica you really are one of a kind! ...cute too!

[@pricelesskaye8456]

I get so excited for new tiny desk concerts!!!!! Definitely my favorite part of my work day

[@derkleineaffe]

This music is like Woke up Sky is gray Hear raindrops BUT you can smell it's spring

[@suegha]

If this woman were any more beautiful, she'd be illegal! :) And a wonderful melodious voice, fantastic performance! I love it!

[@ashiragreene6616]

This is INCREDIBLE. I much prefer this version to the more techno-y sound on the album

[@DanielAmayoMagallanes]

Wonderful... Monica Martin is so pretty and she has a beautiful voice...

[@thecheshirewhale4514]

I'm setting in a subway eating a sandwich, and now I can add crying to the list of things I'm doing.

[@Philosophiseraptor]

Hunter Wright lol I'm picturing that as the video to the last song right now

[@ericbartoszak5211]

Spark had me in tears

[@fireyflower6643]

stunning This type of song should feature in some high end beautiful romance film

[@zoeythemonstermasher6475]

The best music I've possibly ever heard. #bliss

[@shabocompilations]

That spark song, the arrangement is so nice. Instruments are awesome and the voice is just breath taking

[@gordonlancaster1612]

Tiny desk is like this perfect big sister who brings all the latest and coolest records home and who knows the musicians and brings you backstage. The best thing that happened to me in the last two years. I wanna say thank you

[@danielfritz954]

i can listen to this a million times

[@fabiantanferna2667]

Jeremy, Monica, Juliette, Jessica, Kristine and Jarvis, just THANK YOU SO MUCH...

[@ClaireWaltersAKAfrankysmart]

One of life's greatest mysteries - How can 93 people dislike this? This is magical

[@NotRightMusic]

Speechless . . . just utterly brilliant!

[@chriswallace5648]

Oh! I recognize Jeremy Larson from A Beautiful Mess. I had no idea he is such a talented musician. What a talented couple!!!

[@a1m05tg0n3]

I keep rewatching this I love it. There are Sade sensibilities here I think that's why.

[@PayMeNoMind]

Pretty dope find! NPR is the absolute 🔌 for excellent 🎶. Music is always fabulous when real musicians are involved.

[@rosegear2191]

I have admired Monica’s voice since I heard PHOX at the Project Lodge in 2012...incredible.

[@lysergicserpent7676]

Found this project recently (happily) after being frustrated for lack of any new PHOX releases. Monica Martin's voice and lyrics move me deeply, and the collaboration between these two is really such a perfect match. Incidentally I love the acoustic arrangements of these songs, and they juxtapose beautifully with the more electronic (but equally lovely) production of the album cuts.

[@keithraymond628]

Modern classical music that is not dystonic. What a treat!

[@vivsgm7538]

Soulfully singing with this perfect classical strings arrangement, that's how good Monica Martin is.

[@mrchrisroden]

This is stunning.

[@Violents]

thank you

[@brentwalker8596]

What a beautiful rich sound they make together. Monica has the wild and curlies goin' on. Lovely. Never want it to end.

[@DocksonRF]

She looks stunning... and so she sounds

[@margaretbest2762]

thank you for broadening my musical tastes tiny desk

[@therealdjshok]

absolutely beautiful! Thank you!

[@michaelrossi752]

Something about just amazing vocal quality, insane beauty, and quirkiness that makes Monica unforgettable. Add on in one thing that gets missed alot - fantastic songwriting. I haven't connected quite with this on that level - but I'm wondering if Monica is the main writer - her songwriting on the Phox album is, to me, esoteric and connectable somewhere deep. Anyway, gotta get this album..just to add to my Monica closet shrine. haha!

[@crazybabysittertwin]

All these songs were written by Larson. Monica even mentioned after the first song that she felt she should also clap because these weren't her songs. That being said, I completely agree with everything you said. I adore her with PHOX because I love their musical arrangements and their harmonies are so overwhelmingly beautiful together, but seeing her perform these songs with Larson/Violents, her voice is so shy yet commanding at the same time. And there's a quality to her voice that no one else has. It's hard to put into words.

[@corianderwolfgangrainbeaux]

Gorgeous! Thank you for the beautiful music!

[@Dev-rd9gk]

Simply beautiful music... an amazing performance!

[@919lovebug]

this is so incredibly moving

[@jaqueline2602]

Loved this! So wonderful. Her voice sort of reminds me of Frou Frou.

[@jamesbuttram9753]

This was on the tip of my tongue, my peripheral consciousness, for years. Thank you so much for giving it a name.

[@jaqueline2602]

@@jamesbuttram9753 glad I could help 💖👍🏽

[@fabiobarbati6029]

many congratulations to the sound enegeneer: outstanding job!

[@ralphiegixenflargle]

Ugh PHOX on hiatus hurts but this is so beautiful. 😭

[@dandotcom1989]

This is beautiful! Such a great voice, and the quartet too 😵😵

[@ildiko1vt]

MAGICAL!!!!! Hope this becomes an album....love Monica's interpretations and the melodies and lyrics!! Lovely violins too! I stumbled upon Monica with Phox....and had to hear more...but this is just beautiful under Jeremy's lead. WOW!!! Cannot get enough!!!

[@GuerillaXV]

This performance is beautiful and epic. Monica was divulging her heart in this. I can tell it was hard for her yet still so elegant. She is a queen.

[@terrafree]

Every time I watch this, I slide deeper in love with Monica:)

[@moleratical7634]

Me too, though I'm not sure how that's even possible

[@Olaizmusic]

Hey it’s Kristine Kruta from her collective Little Kruta that collab’d with Adam Neely! Small world!!! I love NY. So easy to keep track of people haha

[@ffionatkinson586]

This is wonderful! Her voice is so powerful and magical, it makes me tearful every time she starts singing. Tiny Desk

[@pajamaprodigy]

holy shit her voice i'm in love

[@PaddyMacNasty]

It's crazy how shy she is considering how much talent she has. I know singing talent and stage presence don't go hand in hand but it's not as if the crowd don't already love her.

[@iamlindavilela]

i feel like being talented and believing you are talented are two completely different things :)

[@jolugo8151]

this just melted my soul...pure beauty

[@Andreravone]

This music is beautiful and well performed.

[@lionofistanmusic7311]

wowwwww awesome!!!! Beautiful voice, you all sound amazing, and one time for that quartet, arrangement also dope

[@GingerRodriguez]

Her voice is so unique I love it and the song is really well written

[@babsiileinchen]

was busy doing something when it started, but as soon as she started singing I was hypnotized and couldn't take my eyes and ears off this and had goosebumps all over......

[@fosco44]

Remarkable songs, congratulations. The collaboration of the string quartet Rootstock Republic is very interesting. Innovative music in my opinion. Congratulations to J. Larson for his cutting edge musical insights.Monika's voice is particularly engaging without overdoing it, she manages to give the melody something exotic

[@lazarddiankson1400]

I hope they can do more work together. Such a pleasant surprise! Npr does it again. All these songs just transport you to different places. Well done to you all.

[@MrsRondawalker11]

Omg Monica! I didn't even notice her until she started singing.

[@kaylianiplatt1834]

love the sound of her voice so much, she looks so lovely. x

[@Hollyhocks81]

I might be tearing up at my desk. Thanks for making this beautiful music, my fellow Midwesterners.

[@Hollyhocks81]

Well, I guess Jeremy is from TN. :) Monica is from WI.

[@jalenmarsh4730]

i love that this exists

[@TheCatiebrownie]

I love, loved..? Her in PHOX! As long as she's singing I don't care what the name of band is called. She is fantastic. Unique voice.

[@amykc]

Jeremy Larson is amazing. And the singers he works with on Violents makes this all so heavenly

[@lauraannharrell4043]

I've been binging Tiny Desk lately, and this is the one I keep coming back to. All the elements come together so seamlessly and leave me breathless. So darn good.

[@OnyxDeity]

I still listen to the Phox concert regularly and it is a concert born out of many talented musicians' contributions - so I am beyond excited to get this spiritual reprise at the hands of other, amazingly talented musicians. While I hope for more Phox, I can't wait for more Violents & Monica Martin collabs. More stunning music in a crisp, emotional style.

[@sylviamaike6866]

So much beauty... a beautiful pair of collaborations... beautiful sound, beautiful compositions... beautiful voice... and her gorgeous hair...

[@coramariemusic]

thank you for this heavenly union for magical music makers!

[@xnxnxnxndsjdjdjddj7574]

Rootstock Republic are stellar. ❤️How musicians can come together for productive efforts. Politicians....you listening?

[@phillieb30]

Very magical! These artists converging to deliver a performance unlike anything else around, thank you all for this moment!!!

[@crmlkid]

She is gorgeous and amazing, the live instruments that her voice almost becomes a part of only make this a more amazing experience. This was my tiny desk introduction and I fell in love.

[@alexmarine625]

liked after the first five notes

[@calathealunar4498]

What a beautiful combination

[@sarahlas9542]

i've been waiting for this for so long! unraveling is so beautiful live, wow

[@sabirajade]

beautiful. stunning. I loved it. I am a new fan x

[@Jackwagon]

She sounds like a raspy Imogen Heap. Love it!!

[@Adri4n0]

I also thought about Imogen Heap. Especially when listening to the song "How it left".

[@fireyflower6643]

Beautiful - the singer, the music, the song

[@jennamichelephotography5137]

I just died, the strings and her voice are the best combo