Desert Tundra is the Alt-Rock alter ego of Virginia native, now Los Angeles based, singer and guitarist Janet Jelena. Bringing together a strong sense of pop, coupled with rock and roll bravado, Desert Tundra doesn’t let the genre define her content. Setting out to confront the anomalies that go with living in the moment her songs span the range of human emotion from unrequited love to hope, anger and loneliness, in addition to issues not usually broached in the genre like body image. On the surface, her songs may seem like your standard rock anthems but at their core they mirror real life closer than they appear.

In this interview feature, we speak with Desert Tundra about music, motivations, the new project, and more.

Full Q&A, links, and a stream of “Virginia” below.

Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?

Growing up I always listened to pop-punk/rock, especially the female bands in the mid 2000’s. I love the energy and the vibe. Whatever emotion you’re feeling at that moment you can blast it and it’ll help you get through anything. I guess that’s the power of music.

What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?

I grew up in a family that encouraged being unique and being creative. I’ve always been into music and started being in bands at the age of 15. My mom realized this desire in me and she wanted me to improve my skills by making sure I get the right tools to achieve this goal.  A year ago I moved to Los Angeles to continue this journey and I’m enjoying it so far.

The constant drive to make my music heard is what pushes me. Music is a powerful tool to get your voice heard, and I want people to hear my voice and the message I have to share.

Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?

A mood or certain emotion I’m feeling definitely sparks my creativity. I’m always in tune with my emotions, its the ultimate source of my creativity.

My taste in music has changed over time. I find myself listening to genre’s that I never thought I would listen to, which is cool because there’s so much inspiration to be found out there.

Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?

For this project I’m pulling out all the stops. I’ve learned a lot from being in other bands and I want to take this project as far as I can possible take it. Creatively, I want it to reach a broader audience, but still be true to my punk roots.

What was the last song you listened to?

“Pitch Imperfect” by Austin Jones. I love the vocal harmonies.

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

MP3’s cause that’s all I know (HA!). Although I have been starting a Vinyl collection recently, it’s kind of addicting.

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

Hmmm, that’s a tough one. Spotify, because it gives more opportunity for people to listen to newer artists like myself.

Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?

The biggest challenge I find is that whole mentality that most people have when it comes to newer artists: “When they start playing it on the radio, then I’ll like it.”

Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?

The best place to connect with me online is my band’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/deserttundra

To discover more music from Desert Tundra you can always check out my Soundcloud page: https://soundcloud.com/deserttundra

Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?

Don’t forget to check out “Virginia” out on iTunes and wherever good music is sold. Thank you for having me here and thank you for the opportunity.