Superior Siren honors music and sisterhood

By Abigail Blonigen

Most are familiar with the mythological Siren: a beautiful but dangerous creature that lures sailors to their death with its enchanting voice. Born and raised in Duluth, singer-songwriter Laura Sellner was also drawn to that “alluring but creepy” sound in her music.

Coupled with her deep connection to Lake Superior, Sellner began using the stage name “Superior Siren” in 2014. What began as a solo project has now evolved into an all women band with a unique eerie folk sound.

“I enjoy working with women,” said Sellner, who grew up with three older sisters. “I find it to be productive, and the communication to be very clear and concise.”

After some time as a solo act, Sellner collaborated with a group of male musicians to play at Duluth’s Homegrown Music Festival. After those musicians went their separate ways, Sellner began intentionally seeking out women to work with to fit her Siren theme.

In 2016, Sellner joined forces with cellist Rachel Gobin, bassist Nyssa Krause, and drummer Emma Deaner. At the time, Sellner didn’t know where the group would go, but it became a very solid fit.

“We all have different skills and different mindsets that bring a really nice balance to the group,” said Sellner.

Sellner remains the lead and manager of the band, writing the lyrics and melody to their songs. Once she has a peice ready, she brings it to the band to add their ideas. She is often “amazed with how songs progress with additional instrumentation,” turning a simple tune into a masterful serenade.

“To first find this void to express these emotions and these feelings and then to have it be taken in graciously by these musicians and have them enhance it is very beautiful, very remarkable,” said Sellner.

Sellner has been a vocalist all her life, singing in various choirs and taking vocal lessons in college. After receiving a degree in geology from the University of MinnesotaDuluth, she considered many different paths but realized she would not be happy if she didn’t pursue music.

Gobin, from Superior, WI met Sellner while working at Zeitgeist in Duluth. While she began her musical journey around the age of 10, she had lost her outlet after graduating from college, where she studied music and was involved in orchestra.

“Once I heard her sing, I knew that our sounds together would be amazing, and I guess the rest is history,” said Gobin.

Krause, too, was taking a break from music to pursue her career in healthcare. From Eau Claire, WI, she studied music and business administration at UMD and played in jazz band, jazz combo, and symphony orchestra.

Deaner, a Duluthian who had also explored music since childhood, discovered Sellner at a show one winter’s night, where she was enchanted by her sound and artistry.

“For the first time, I could hear ways in which I could

Continued on page 14 provide support to expand the sound or pair it down in order to truly bring the songwriting to life,” said Deaner, who approached Sellner after the set..

“It’s now been five years since I joined the project, and it’s been the most profound experience of my life,” she said.

The band has been creating together for over four years and instantly became close friends.

“These women help me strive to be a better person, push and guide me, make me laugh, hug me when I cry,” said Gobin. “ I didn’t just gain a band; I gained another family.”

Superior Siren hopes to release another full length album in the near future, but the COVID-19 outbreak has put many of their plans on hold. While several of their upcoming shows have been cancelled, they still hope to play a number of shows over the summer, as well as release a music video for their song “Trying Too Hard.”

Sellner’s goal is to release a five song solo EP in 2021 accompanied by a U.S. tour.

In the music industry, all women bands are still relatively rare, a characteristic Superior Siren holds dear.

“People are always in such awe when they see an all women band, and that is something that should already be the norm but sadly isn’t, so we are here to break that mold in the music industry,” said Gobin. “We strive to inspire and empower young girls to go after their passions.”

Human connection is the driving force behind Sellner’s creativity and songwriting, so when the music makes people think, feel, or connect more deeply, the Sirens feel as if they have done their job.

Sellner believes this ability to love and open one’s heart is stronger in women, making it easier to be vulnerable with one another to create songs that convey that depth and emotion.

“Sharing the joys and sorrows of life together has been a gift I will forever cherish,” said Deaner. “We speak the universal language of music and that transcends into all aspects of life. It’s a unique connection only musical notes can truly explain.”

To stay up to date with Superior Siren’s upcoming shows, visit their website at superiorsiren.com. With many shows being cancelled or postponed due to the novel coronavirus outbreak, there is also a donation link on their site to support the band during these financially uncertain times. Merchandise is also available for purchase online. D