Austin-area duo Tele Novella featuring singer Natalie Ribbons and former Voxtrot bassist Jason Chronis released their new album Merlynn Belle in early 2021. Their first release in six years, it’s a collection that’s reminiscent of country, meshed with a sentimental indie-folk flare. Tele Novella came together as a band when Natalie Ribbons, who owns a vintage shop, and Jason Chronis, who collects rare records, were each making music in separate projects at the time. Painstakingly assembling their tracks by using a blend of hi-fi recording gear and technique straight onto an 8-track cassette recorder, Tele Novella have crafted a beautiful pop album that feels equal parts dreamy, mysterious, and sincere.
The track “Never” has a sad but inspiring back story; it was written for her best friend, who experienced the loss of a close family member. Ribbons told The Brooklyn Vegan, “I wrote this song for my best friend, after her younger brother passed away unexpectedly…” Ribbons went on to say, “There’s really not much that you can do to alleviate grief, but getting to be there for her through the process deepened our bond. I saw her strength and big-heartedness all the more clearly after that experience and it deepened my love and admiration for her.”