The Barrettes

Give us a little bio on yourself.

I grew up in a suburb of Milwaukee, and although I hated it during my young adulthood, I did reap the benefits of playing club soccer when there weren't a lot of girls soccer teams around the country. I graduated high school in 1992 and went on to make it to nationals three years running for division three soccer at UW-Stevens Point.  I began coaching during this time and found I loved teaching. I graduated with degrees in Biology, Psychology, Women's Studies and Secondary Education and went on to teach science and math at an alternative high school in Milwaukee. During my 10 years of teaching, I realized my love for environmental science and saw how nature positively affected my inner-city students. I went on to earn my Masters in Environmental Education and joined the Wisconsin Association for Environmental Education board. In addition to teaching, coaching and many camping trips (with and without my students), I began playing soccer again. Unfortunately, I realized my body was no longer able to handle the stress as both of my heels had grown bone spurs. Lucky for me, roller derby has little impact on my heels! For the past two years I have been the Program Director for the Urban Ecology Center in Washington Park.



Give us a little bio on your band.

Location: Ladyfest Lansing Michigan. When: Summer of 2004. Situation: an already very happy JoAnn Riedl stumbled up to singer/guitarist Joey and drummer Joolz at the merch table in a local venue and proclaimed, "Damn, I missed you guys. I'm so sorry; I'm moving to Milwaukee in a few days and really wanted to see you. I'm out of money, but can I have a CD?" So the deal was set. A free CD was given with a promise of a cover at the next Milwaukee show. Expecting little, Joolz and Joey were shocked to find JoAnn front and center at the next Skexies show at Points East Pub. From that point on, D.I.Y. singer/songwriter JoAnn and her band shared the stage with the Skexies on a regular basis.

After the bass player of the three-piece Skexies moved away, Joolz and Joey had a decision to make: find a new bass player or start a new project. The proposition was made and JoAnn began experimenting with the former Skexies. It didn't take long to realize they created a different style of music; one that all parties agreed was a great fit. The only thing missing was the low end. Not interested in the typical arrangements (JoAnn and Joey both switch between guitar and distorted ukulele and mandolin, respectfully) they decided to hunt for a cellist. Critter, a jammer for the Shevil Knevils, rolled in to complete The Barrettes. These four hooligans feed off of the quick
beats, quirky riffs and at times circesque vibes (undoubtedly due to the melodica) their songs possess, and so do their fans.

The Barrettes are included on the Roller Derby Music Compilation and were honored to play at the after bout party at Madison's High Noon Saloon for the 2008 Eastern WFTDA Regionals. They have also played shows in Racine, Minneapolis, Stevens Point, and most venues in Milwaukee, including Summerfest, Harleyfest and Locust Street Days. We recorded a full length CD mid-February.



What kind of music do you play?

We play an eclectic form of rock . . . some call us punk without the attitude, some call us pop punk, some just call us fun. We write the songs together, and we all have different style and try not to compromise that.

How long have you been a musician?

I was in chamber singers in high school . . . but didn't start playing guitar until I was 22 (I needed a new hobby after I was done playing soccer). I've been in four bands before The Barrettes.

What do you love best about music?

It's a creative outlet, a way to relax and let go while still being productive.



Tell us about your alter ego.

Eight years ago, a young woman stumbled into a small village on the steppes of southern Russia. She spoke nothing to the bewildered villagers, and they could only speculate about her descendents. She travels without getting lost, possesses a natural affinity for animals and will strike at any given moment. Usually without warning.

Enters: Pound Anya (#)

How long have you been playing derby?

I've played for the Brewcity Bruisers since the league started, a little over three years now. My home team has been the Rushin' Rollettes and I have played on the Travel Team the past two seasons. I have been an active member, holding roles on the Steering Committee as a captain and am currently the treasurer on the Board of Directors.



What's your derby position?

I usually play back blocker, but will play where ever needed.

How do you find the time to balance derby, music, and a living?

My mom always said I burn the candle at both ends. I suppose at times I feel like I need a vacation from it all, but at 34 I have learned I am happiest when I am busy. If anything, I have learned that I have to schedule down time for myself.

What's your favorite thing about derby?

I think my favorite thing about derby is being on the forefront of essentially a new sport. Although, I always enjoy a work out!

What kind of advice would you give other rollergirl hopefuls?

Keep it in balance! It's exciting, fun, but it's important to remember everything is best in moderation. Derby should be a part of your live, not your life. I've seen too many skaters burn out by taking everything too seriously!



Anything you want our readers to know?
Ahhh . . . I don't know?!  Is there anything more you'd like to know? I own a 1981 Mercedes Benz that is converted to run on waste vegetable oil. I won homecoming queen at UW-Stevens Point in 1998 . . . the first (and maybe still only) time a same-sex couple won king and queen at a
university.