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TTSSFU tells us about shaking self-doubt and new music: “I’m going back to dream-pop”
Manchester singer Tamsin Stephens has outlined her creative trajectory during an interview at Mad Cool Festival, signalling a return to synth-driven dream-pop for her upcoming record. After her August 2025 release "Blown" and a guitar-focused preceding project, she is refocusing on the electronic sound that first inspired her. The new material draws from a synth-pop album she previously recorded as an experimental endeavour, which she describes as flawed but ultimately generative for her current direction.
Stephens acknowledged that the period following "Blown" involved substantial self-questioning; touring with other artists and observing their work sparked doubt about whether her music held sufficient originality and impact. She has since resolved that concern and regained creative confidence. Citing Robyn, Caroline Polachek, and the film "I Saw The TV Glow" as inspirational touchstones, she is preparing to support Blondshell on an upcoming tour. Her Mad Cool Festival performance was received favourably by critics.
In short
- TTSSFU is shifting toward synth-driven dream-pop for her next album after experimenting with guitar-based production
- The artist wrestled with self-doubt following her 'Blown' release, doubting whether her work was creatively compelling
- New material draws from Robyn, Caroline Polachek, and the film 'I Saw The TV Glow' whilst incorporating salvaged material from a side synth-pop project
Explained simply
Tamsin Stephens is a Manchester-based singer and musician who creates electronic and synth-driven pop music. Her work has evolved across different styles in recent years, including guitar-focused projects and her earlier synth-pop sound. She released an album called "Blown" in August 2025.
Stephens has decided to return to synth-driven dream-pop, the electronic style that originally inspired her work. She had previously recorded a synth-pop album as an experimental endeavour, which she describes as flawed but ultimately generative for her current direction. This shift moves away from the guitar-based music of the period following "Blown".
Stephens experienced substantial self-doubt during the time after "Blown" was released, questioning whether her music held sufficient originality and impact, particularly whilst touring with other musicians. She has since resolved these concerns and regained confidence in her creative vision. Artists including Robyn and Caroline Polachek are cited as inspirational touchstones for her new material.
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