A 3Q Interview w/ Joy Ike

She was humble enough to do a short interview with me, read my review on her sophomore album Good Morning. Joy Ike ladies and gentlemen! (applause)
TW: So you decided to escape that Squirell Hill nest for a while and work on some more layered multi-part stuff now, how's that?
Joy Ike: I think for the most part the 1st CD was more of a learning experience. It was my first time recording and I didn't know anything about the process. I was also still trying to find my "sound". I was in the early stages of re-learning the piano and very limited in what I could create. Good Morning is totally different. I think my sound will continue to evolve, but I've had a little more time to figure out who I want to be as a performer. I've also gotten past my phobia of performing with other musicians...which definitely makes room for more creativity.
TW: Are you relying on anything from Pittsburgh, any influences out there?
Joy Ike: I wouldn't necessarily say I am directly influenced by anything in Pittsburgh. So I guess the short answer is "no". My inspiration comes from all over the place - people, music, quotes, and natural beauty (if that doesn't sound cheesy). When it comes to artist I highly respect, I try to always give shout-outs to Sufjan Stevens, Sara Groves, and Brooke Waggoner. I highly respect all three.
TW: How are the live acts working? Because you know there are still people stuttering their own lyrics. And don't forget to give me you Pitchfork rate as well. Let's say you're a journalist out there for an hour.
Joy Ike: Hmm live shows? I guess it depends on what day is. Some days I am totally on point and other days I just hit one wrong note after another. In fact, I have a running joke with my friends that the only reason my music is classified as borderline jazz, is because I play all these "off-sounding" chords. And yes...I occasionally forget my lyrics. Like I said, it just depends on what day it is. Sometimes I choke on my spit and cough into the mic. Not on purpose, of course! That said, I might give myself a pitchfork rating of 7 or 8 assuming the music critic is easily amused.