photograph via
Bob Massey
MUSICIAN / WRITER / STORYTELLER
Joey is a gem. There's really no other way to put it. He's a guy who's talent is matched only by his sincerity and sense of humor. I first met Joey when we decided to work with his then band, Pomegranates. The music was love at first listen. Joey's voice has this vintage, timeless, otherworldly quality to it. You can't not like it. I dare you. He's gone on to do a lot post-Pomegranates, putting out records under the name of Joesph, creating indie record label Eyebrow Palace, and making really wonderful art. Joey is just one of these people who's alive and his enthusiasm and heart is evident in everything he touches.
What's new?
I don’t know how new it is, but for the last few years my primary focus has been writing screenplays for TV and film. I was trying to get out of the debt incurred by years of hemorrhaging money on music projects and touring. I’m also kind of trying to forget everything I knew about making music so I can rediscover it and be excited about the possibilities. Best move I’ve made in ages is buying a really dope kalimba.
What have you been working on?
Right now I’m writing two television pilots. One for the Paramount Network that’s a murder mystery / coming-of-age story set in the 90s Seattle music scene. The other concerns the government’s efforts to frame the jazz singer Billie Holiday and how she fought back. That one has Tessa Thompson attached to play Billie.
What are you excited about?
Most things. Life is good. For the first time in my adult life I’m not broke and trying to scrounge health insurance or car repairs or whatever. I’m stoked about having made a creative life. And that my creative palette has expanded beyond just music to all kinds of other things.
What are you listening to?
t changes all the time but at the moment:
- Everything Is Recorded
- Wye Oak
- The Coup
- Author and Punisher
- Terrace Martin
Ask me again next week.
What else?
I have music running through my head all the time and I’m looking forward to getting some space to record it. But I’ve been saying that for a while now. So we’ll see.