Tahni Handal

Bio:

.. .... Tahni - Woman with Guitar

Tahni Handal is an Austin-based musician, so it comes as no surprise that she's difficult to pigeon-hole. Sometimes acoustic and introspective, sometimes rocking and angry, her music is emotionally driven and spiritually fueled, qualities that shine through in her hauntingly open vocal delivery. Tahni has a way of questioning her faith without ever doubting it; she fully EXPECTS to be answered. This is a woman who expects a lot... of herself and of life. And she inspires the listener to do the same.

Born and raised in Hollywood, California, Tahni began playing piano at the age of eight, switching to guitar after being smacked with a book by her hot-headed piano instructor. In her late teens and early twenties Tahni played lead guitar for all-girl heavy metal band Tantrum, playing regularly on the world-famous Sunset Strip and around Los Angeles, at legendary places like Gazzarri's, The Whiskey and The Troubadour, often sharing the bill with bands like Ratt, Queensrych, and Y & T (she actually shared rehearsal space with Mötley Crüe). The band also appeared in the Allan Arkush cult classic "Get Crazy" with Malcolm McDowell, Lou Reed, Lee Ving and John Densmore. Always working to develop her talent, Tahni is also a graduate of GIT (Guitar Institute of Technology) in Los Angeles.

Back Again
Shortly after the new millennium Tahni made the pilgrimage to Austin, TX. It was here that inspiration and creative nurturing came together, as Tahni began work on 2004's Back Again. Co-Produced by local troubadour Woody Russell, Back Again is an introspective acoustic/electric pop collection that chronicles a spiritual journey from broken promises and crushed dreams, through lost-yet-lingering loves, to motherhood and new inspiration. With several shades of The Beatles, hints of Van Morrison and a little Fleetwood Mac, "Back Again" is a tapestry of melodies and dynamic vocal arrangements with Tahni's guitar work woven in like fine embroidery.

SweetSpot
Tahni's 2nd release, "SweetSpot" was produced by Dony Wynn (Robert Palmer's longtime drummer). Here, Tahni cranks up her rhythm and blues roots to further explore the spirit-quest of the soul. Bolder and more experimental arrangements provide the perfect canvas for the more assertive lyrics; she's pouring her soul into life, and expects you to do the same. Tahni's sparse guitar work and haunting vocals create a voice of transcendence... someone reaching for truths beyond this world. "SweetSpot" is a soulful, at times almost psychedelic mix of groovyness.

To Kiss You
Tahni's 3rd CD, To Kiss You, was released in 2008. Produced by Kelly Donnelly (currently working with Eric Johnson), To Kiss You is the most rocking CD from Tahni yet. With shimmering guitars and a crisp rhythm section propelling her, Tahni steps out vocally, hinting at her L.A. rock roots while maintaining the open, honest quality she's become known for.

Late last year Tahni became more involved in the fight against breast cancer. Inspired by her close friend Cherie Matthews' personal story, Tahni's song "Stronger Again" is an emotionally open call-to-action, intended to raise awareness of the myriad of emotions cancer patients and their loved ones face. The cause has deep meaning for Tahni, who's brother Bill died of Hodgkins Disease after a 14 year battle.

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Member Since:

April 25, 2006

Members:

Tahni - Vocals/Guitar
Vance Abeyta - Bass/vocals
Nate Rendon - Keyboards and funky sounds
Rick Trucksess - Drums/vocals

Influences:

The Beatles, Pink, Sheryl Crow, Lucinda Williams, Joan Baez, Carol King, Melissa Etheridge, Willie Nelson, The Eagles, Eric Clapton, Jimmie Vaughan, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dire Straits, CCR, Chrissie Hynde, Queen, Elton John, Bad Company, Pink Floyd, Roy Orbison, Elvis, Ray Charles, Foreigner, The Scorpions, early Van Halen, Joan Jett, 80s hair bands... "I hate to even start this list because so many greats (and not-so-greats) have provided inspiration and paved the way. I hope some of these primary influences reveal themselves in my music".

Here is a link to Tahni's cover band, Love Generator. In particular, check out the video of Tahni singing Zeppelin's Black Dog! Please share this link by clicking on the "Share" button in the upper right corner.

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