Pity Party - Original
Run - Daughter (Cover)
Private Event
AZ State Fair, 2026
Release party!
Mt Lemmon Lodge
Bar Crisol
Asphalt Astronaut is an indie-folk duo based in Tucson. They play a mix of covers and originals with Jessica on vocals/guitar and Tim on keys/lap steel. They are known for their dreamy sound and intimate songwriting, and have experience with a multitude of venues ranging from the Arizona State Fair to beer gardens, wineries, and even coffee shops.
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Languages: English
Gig length: 20 - 240 minutes
Audiences can expect a cozy, intimate vibe even in medium-large venues. Asphalt Astronaut is personable, often joking with crowds or telling brief stories behind the songs. Their stage setup frequently features twinkle lights, projected moons and stars, and audio visualizers when appropriate, which compliment their dreamy sound.
Asphalt Astronaut is the indie-folk and ambient project of Tucson singer-songwriter and producer Jessica Tanner. Since quietly launching the moniker in late 2020 during COVID, she has built her catalog from the ground up—writing, recording, and self-producing five full-length records: Antares, Andromeda, Aurora, Anodyne, and her 2026 concept record, Asphodel, alongside two singles (‘Elgin’ and ‘Praybird’ (acoustic), 2026).
In the studio, her work leans into layered vocal arrangements, dark atmospheric textures, and detailed narrative songwriting. On stage, the heavy production strips away to reveal a straightforward, captivating singer-songwriter set focused purely on acoustic guitar, nuanced vocals, and the frequent addition of collaborator Tim Puckett on keys/slide.
Live Community & Stages: After moving from studio-only tracking to heavy regional gigging, Asphalt Astronaut has become an active staple across Southern Arizona. Alongside an ongoing residency at Tucson’s Hotel McCoy, she has played notable venues like Club Congress, Tucson Museum of Art, and the Rebel Lounge, with festival appearances at the 4th Avenue Street Fair and the Arizona State Fair.
Critical Recognition: Her albums have earned consistent spots on "Top Albums of the Year" lists in Phoenix New Times and Tucson Weekly, alongside features in Tucson Lifestyle and KXCI. In 2026, Asphalt Astronaut was nominated for the Josie Music Awards in the Songwriter Achievement category for the track "Acolyte."
Asphalt Astronaut comes ready to play-- all we need is access to a standard power outlet!
We provide:
E0N208P PA with stands
Mic stand x1
Guitar stand x1
1/4 TS cable x2
XLR cable x1
Shure SM57 mic x1
Extension cords x2 (approx. 5')
Typical set list will vary by venue-- if originals are preferred, setlist will typically include our most popular songs like 'Pity Party', 'O'Hara', and 'Elgin'. If there is no preference we like to mix in some covers that a broad range of audiences get excited about, like 'Bad Moon Rising' (CCR), 'What's Up' (4 Non Blondes), 'Last Kiss' (J Frank/Pearl Jam version)
Access to standard outlet
Folk Band