A Seattle basement, mid-winter. The room swarms with eager fans. Each person, it seems, knows the words to every song belted out by a slender pixie in a jester’s cap.
FaerieWorlds, 2007. A blue-braided powerhouse whales on a bodhran, sending hundreds of bright-clad neo-tribals leaping happily through the air.
Sunday morning barefoot boogie. Dozens of dancers gyrate to a song they’ve never heard before. Grabbing the chorus, they sing: The circle is here/ It lives in each of us/ In perfect love/ And perfect trust. This is the magic of S.J. Tucker. And if you haven’t heard of her yet, you will.

S.J. Tucker is a self-made Pagan performing artist. The “folk” label’s too limited to hold her. Although she seems at first glance like a simple “guitar chick,” in truth she’s a glittering badass of fire-spinning verve. Combining theatrics and mysticism with info-tech savvy and spirited attitude, Tucker defies expectations. Despite her elfin appearance, this “skinny white chick” has a roaring voice and a thousand-yard stare. Like Ani Difranco and Jonathan Coulton, she’s a product of timeless artistry and postmodern opportunity.

The word “magic” is essential to understanding S.J. Tucker. For her, music is a magical act. Like fellow mystics such as Kan’Nal, Tool and Michael Franti, she packs intent behind each song ― especially during live performances ― and her audiences welcome it. Folks don’t just enjoy Tucker’s concerts. They often come away transformed.
--Phil "Satyrblade" Brucato for New Witch