Back on stage after a year off, Malene Mortensen and her band return to Bangkok (see +music, page 16) for the third time with her sultry bluesy style. At the ripe age of 25, she’s already recorded two albums. She tells us all about living with her band and getting inspiration.

What is your music like?
It’s hard to describe. Some of it is very Joni Mitchell, and some is more jazzy. And I’ve been listening a lot to Erykah Badu—I’m very inspired by her way of making music.

You’re so young, where do you draw your inspiration for songwriting?
I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from my own life, my own family. I have a pretty weird family—so I have some pretty close stories in my lyrics. I write with other people, too, which helps make the music not too personal. Some stories are not for anyone else to fully understand, but sometimes, you can express just the feeling of a thing and maybe others can relate to it.

Tell us about your band.
The guys in my band all attend the same conservatory that I do in Copenhagen. We have similar musical inspiration and this commonality makes it easy for us to work together. My boyfriend plays the piano and we write songs together. I need to have a connection with my other musicians—it helps me grow.

How do you normally prepare for a show?
I have voice exercises, and also I do a Chinese exercise called Chi Kong. Its kind of like Tai Chi, a series of slow movements that is really good for the body and the voice. Chi Kong makes me feel very centered and relaxed. Also, tea with honey is very good for the vocal cords.