Press Kit - Big Hassle

"Her strength seems to reside in her ability to be musically versatile. Utilizing various orchestrations,
Tristen weaves a glistening web of thoughtful and extremely mature melodies that tremble with undeniable
power." -American Songwriter
“Pop hooks and pure inspiration” – NPR All Things Considered
Her addictive debut is full of such moments: catchy refrains with multiple meanings, ear-tugging melodies
with hidden hooks. She flaunts a philosophy major's palette amidst echoes of vintage rockabilly and girl
group pop: Gods battle, queens bid their rule, girlfriends enable druggy lovers. – Rolling Stone
“Tristen Gaspadarek is one of the most talented new songwriters in a city full of talented songwriters. Her
addictive debut album, Charlatans at the Garden Gate, is Making a splash with its impassioned lyrics and
hooky guitar pop that blends country, rockabilly, rock’n’roll, girl group sounds, and introspective balladry
-- the result of Tristen's expansive study of pop music. And, just like the LP, her live shows -- with a
backing band called the Ringers -- are rollicking and sharp.” - Spin
"Tristen Gaspadarek has crafted a confident, poignant folk-pop debut that never wants for hooks, and
manages to undercut its sing-songiness at every turn with unflinching lyrics and mature songwriting."
- The Onion AV Club
"Tristen comes from Nashville, TN and the Jenny Lewis school of modern, God-fearing country, but she
caught up to her contemporaries and surpassed them in one fell swoop. As soon as the vocals kick in on the
opener "Eager for Your Love," it's impossible not to listen to this record all the way through. Man this girl
can sing." -Bust
“She’s been Nashville’s best-kept secret, but this single-named chanteuse is poised for bigger and better
things with the recent release of her sprightly new album of baroque folk-pop. “Charlatans at the Garden
Gate’’ glimmers with traces of Neko Case, the Shangri-Las, and maybe just a touch of Loretta Lynn.
– The Boston Globe