Natalia Tena Talks “Game of Thrones”, “Harry Potter”, and Molotov Jukebox
In a recent interview with Herald Scotland, Natalia Tena discusses what it’s like being a part of two of the biggest fantasy franchises of the generation and her performance at King Tut in Glasgow with her band Molotov Jukebox.
You may recognize Natalia from her role as the quirky metamorphmagus Nymphadora Tonks in the Harry Potter movies or as wildling Osha in Game of Thrones, depending on your preference in fandoms. Lesser known but no less cool, is the fact that Natalia is also the frontwoman of the genre-fluid band Molotov Jukebox. The London-based band has drawn much popularity in the last year and is preparing for the release of its sophomore studio album, titled Tropical Gypsy.
In the aforementioned interview, Natalia talks about her anticipation for the band’s show at King Tut in Glasgow, which took place yesterday, saying,
King Tut’s has such a heavy historical musical pedigree that it’s a real honour to be part of it. Everyone on the circuit has stories and fond memories of playing there. Its reputation is such that even down here in London the name carries some serious weight. We had an amazing time when we played there in 2013. It seems to really epitomise the warmth and fun of the city as a whole. I hope we can get the fans dancing and smiling as much as we did last time.
She also touches upon the subject of her band’s inherent sound. Molotov Jukebox has never before confined its music to one genre, seemingly working hard to fully develop its sound. In reference to this, Natalia says,
Over the years that we have been playing and developing our own idiosyncratic sound, we have used a variety of different labels to try [to] sum it up, all of which have been somehow unsatisfactory. We feel that with this one we have finally hit the nail on the head. It’s Latin/Balkan fusion with London roots.
Natalia also expresses her anticipation for the upcoming Game of Thrones seasons and books – which she seems to read.
When it comes to the show, what is one of its greatest strengths is that you never know what could happen next. I cannot wait to see the next season and read the next book.
Nymphadora Tonks is one of the most beloved supporting characters, as well as one of the most painful deaths in the Harry Potter franchise. Natalia concludes the interview by voicing her gratitude for the impact that both of these massive roles – Potter and Thrones – have had on her career.
It has opened doors that would have been closed to me and brought such exciting projects and adventures to my doorstep, not to mention the incredible fans that have found our music through it. I feel bloody humbled and honoured.
You can listen to some of Molotov Jukebox’s music here. What do you think of the band’s new sound? Also, are you looking forward to the next season of Game of Thrones? Let us know in the comments below!
