PRESSING PEOPLE: Lucky Spider: Severin sisters getting noticed in Alaska music scene
If you’re engrossed in the Alaskan music scene, you’ve likely crossed paths with guitarist and music producer Martin Severin. Although Severin has been a mainstay in the scene for years, a new generation of musical talent is poised to carry the family name into the future. Sixteen-year-old Charlotte Severin and 12-year-old sister Clover are beginning to make waves as evidenced by their performances at the Anchorage Folk Festival, Salmon Fest, The Girdwood Forrest Fair and now KONR’s First Friday Sessions.
“I started singing like this when I learned how to play guitar five years ago. I’d quit the choir I was with, but I really wanted to keep singing. That eventually led to open mic nights and then gigs,” said Charlotte.
“I’ve never really done any music independently, but Charlotte and I have gone to a summer choir camp, but I haven’t been as involved in singing activities like she has,” added Clover. “I used to tag along with Charlotte at her gigs and it kind of just grew from there. Now we have been performing together for the last two years.”
The duo may have only been performing together for a few years, but their saccharine sweet harmonies blend together so seamlessly, one would think they were already seasoned pros. Not unlike the prodigal Swedish sister act First Aid Kit, the Severins cite a diverse list of musical influences that starts within the family.
“Our dad has been one our biggest influences. I want to say he’s a big deal, but I might be biased,” laughed Charlotte.
While their dad may be their most important influence to date, the girls enjoy playing a highly eclectic set of covers when they perform.
“Sometimes we cover songs from cartoons and they are just silly and nice. But then there are some songs that are more sad and somber. We like to cover a really diverse set of songs,” said Clover.
“We do have a really weird list of songs we play and they are all over the place! But I think my favorite musician to cover is Pat Benatar. We play ‘We Belong’ but we also like to play ‘Hit Me with Your Best Shot’,” added Charlotte who performed at the Pat Benatar pre-party at the Alaska State Fair in 2016 after winning a radio contest.
Covers currently make up the bulk of their act but they have plans of expanding their repertoire in the near future.
“I’ve written a few songs but none that I’ve actually performed out in public. I feel like ‘Mermaids of Homer’ is the only song that we’ve really gone through and edited and made it perfect – or at least perfect in my eyes. Our summer project is to try and put out an EP,” explained Charlotte.
Until the album’s release, fans will have to settle for seeing the duo perform live under the name Lucky Spider. You can catch them at their monthly concerts at American Legion Post 28.
